Appeal launched to help West Bridgford dad Craig access specialist cancer treatment

Craig was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January.

Craig’s fundraising page text:

Following initial investigations, the family are exploring the possibility of SABR (Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy), an advanced and highly targeted form of non-surgical radiotherapy that may be an option for Craig.

Unfortunately, this treatment is not routinely available on the NHS for patients with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer and would need to be accessed privately. The cost is estimated at between £35,000 and £45,000, which is far beyond what Craig and his family can afford. While we do not yet know whether Craig will be eligible, we want to ensure that, if this treatment could offer him another chance, finances are not the reason he is unable to access it.

After months of tests, treatment discussions and hope that there might be another explanation, the family have now received devastating news: Craig has Stage 4 cancer which has spread to his liver.

Despite the seriousness of his diagnosis, Craig’s oncologist believes he is fit, strong and well enough to be given every possible chance to fight the disease.

However, there are difficult decisions ahead. While one surgeon has declined to operate because of the spread of the cancer, another believes surgery could still offer Craig an opportunity and has said he would be willing to proceed. A specialist team will review Craig’s case in the coming days, and we are holding on to every shred of hope that he may be given that chance.

In the meantime, Craig’s oncologist has recommended an urgent private consultation with a leading pancreatic specialist in London. The consultation alone costs £450, in addition to travel and other associated expenses.

If you’d like to help the donation page is here

They also want to explore any treatments, therapies and support that could improve Craig’s quality of life and give him every opportunity to keep fighting.

Anyone who knows Craig knows his strength, determination and positive spirit. He is facing the toughest challenge of his life, and we want to help remove some of the financial burden so that he and his family can focus on what truly matters: spending precious time together and pursuing every available option.

Craig is a proud, self-employed plumber who has always worked hard to provide for his family, but he has sadly been forced to stop working because of his circumstances.

Away from work, Craig has been a dedicated and respected football coach, freely giving his time to coach two football teams for his youngest son and supporting countless young players in his local community.

He is married to his amazingly strong wife, Natalie, who is also self-employed and has been a constant source of love and support throughout this difficult journey. Together, they have two wonderful boys, aged 10 and 14, who remain at the heart of everything they do as a family.

If you are able to donate, no matter how small the amount, it would mean the world to Craig and his loved ones. If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this page and keeping Craig in your thoughts.

Thank you for your kindness, generosity and support during this incredibly difficult time.

At present, Natalie and Craig have chosen not to tell their boys about the Stage 4 diagnosis. They ask that people respect their decision by not sharing the news with their own children.

Together, let’s help Craig fight for every chance and every moment.

If you’d like to help the donation page is here

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