Members of Luke’s Legacy, a trust set up in memory of former Hartsdown teacher Luke Williams, have made a donation to YouCan Youth Cancer Support – a project which helps young people with cancer.
Luke lost his battle with cancer in 2014. The former East Kent College football coach was diagnosed with cancer of the mouth on his 28th birthday in June 2013. It was hoped that the worst was behind him after he underwent major surgery and intensive chemotherapy and radiotherapy but tragically Luke discovered he had secondary cancer in his lungs a year later.
He was immediately put onto another very intense chemotherapy treatment which made him extremely ill.
After consultation with his specialist it was agreed that Luke should be able to enjoy a certain quality of life rather than endure the pain and grief the treatment would inevitably cause him and his loved ones for what could be just an extra few months.
Sadly, Luke lost his battle to cancer on October 9, 2014 but he saw out his remaining months in his own unique style.
With help from his family and friends, Luke was able to create and fulfil an action packed Bucket List, which included marrying his one and only true love – Linda Birzniece in an emotional ceremony at Smiths Court Hotel, Cliftonville.
Luke also led a team of his closest friends and family on an inspirational charity drive that surpassed all expectations, raising over £26,000 for the Pilgrims Hospice and Cancer Research UK.
Luke’s Legacy, now The Luke Williams Charitable Trust, has continued the work with fundraising events ranging from 5-a-side matches to sponsored dog walks and the Williams Weekender.
The team’s chosen charity to receive money from a year of fundraising was YouCan.
The project, which was formed just over two years ago, is part of The Children’s Development Trust charity with the aim of supporting young people across the south east with respite, counselling and a range of programmes.
Last year YouCan opened haven for young people aged 10-35 whose lives have been affected by cancer. Hinton House, a 4-bed home in Station Road, Westgate, is used exclusively to give respite to families, groups and friends that are dealing with the impact of cancer.
The donation from Luke’s Legacy will fund three tailor-made five-day breaks for young people in future months.
The team will also be making their annual donation to Pilgrims Hospice. A decision has not yet been made on who will be Luke’s Legacy’s chosen cause for 2018 and anyone who wants/needs support can get in touch.
Find out more about YouCan here
What’s coming up?
Williams Weekender
Hosted by the Winter Gardens, The Gala will return on Saturday, August 11, with the Dog Walk on Sunday, August 12.
Liam Morris, from Luke’s Legacy, said: “We are looking to put together a variety show feel to the Gala this year, with music, dance, magic and much more, hopefully making it more appealing to everyone.
“We are hoping to announce our act line up in the coming weeks. More details should be available at the end of the month.”
The Luke Williams Cup
The annual footie match will take place on Sunday, June 17 and this year is hosted by the Margate 5-Aside Cages again. Luke’s Legacy are the current champions and will be looking to defend their crown. Any teams interested in entering can contact the team via the website and social media.
Luke’s Legacy is also looking for local businesses and companies to sponsor/support events
Get in touch through the website here or the facebook page here