The moment Jack teed off first at the golf day on the 16th August, which raised an astounding £7,100 for Birch Haem Day Case Unit.

 

Just days before his 25th birthday, Jack discovered a lump on his neck. What followed was a life-changing diagnosis of Stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, which had spread to his neck, chest and underarms. The news was a devastating shock for him and his family. “Our lives were completely spun,” they shared. 

 

Jack was promptly referred to the Birch Haem Day Case Unit at University Hospitals Plymouth for intensive chemotherapy. Reflecting on the experience, his partner Abigail said, ‘From the minute we walked through the doors, we just felt calmer considering the daunting situation. The first words the Junior Sister said to us were, 'Welcome to the Birch Family'. The significance of that statement was so special, especially now.’ 

 

After two months of treatment, they received the incredible update they had been hoping for: "Jack’s follow-up PET Scan was a 'complete metabolic response to treatment', meaning all clear of cancerous cells, which was rare but fantastic nonetheless." 

   

Jack and Abigail

 

Grateful for the care and support their family had received, they knew they wanted to give back to the team that had been their rock through everything. They decided on a golf day at the Elfordleigh Golf Club, bringing together 36 family and friends under beautiful blue skies. 

 

“The atmosphere was truly special,” said Abigail. “It was an emotional experience for us, seeing all the effort Jack’s brother George put into coordinating the event and witnessing the amazing support Jack has received from family and friends—whether through donations, playing, or simply coming along to cheer.” 

 

“A highlight of the day was welcoming five of the nurses from Birch Day Case Unit, who came to meet everyone and watch Jack’s opening speech and first tee-off. Having them there made the event even more meaningful.” 

 

Jack and the Birch DCU team

 

Now three weeks post-chemotherapy, Jack is doing well—back at work, hair growing back and even planning a holiday for next year. “This milestone feels incredibly powerful. We are now waiting for his follow-up PET scan and clinic appointment, with the hope of finally reaching remission.”   

 

Thanks to the generosity of all involved, the golf day raised over £7,100 for Birch. These funds will make a massive difference for patients and their families, helping to improve patient comfort and fund items that brighten the experience for those receiving treatment on the unit.  

 

The event was supported by many local businesses, including: Elburton Garage, Elite Carpentry and Building SW, Autotec, The London Inn, Moorland Road Garage, Watertight Roofing, Secure Parking and Storage, GSF Car Parts, Ace of Diamonds, UWS Glazing Solutions, Certini Bicycle Company, Allison’s Butchers, MDP Electrical, Sean’s Tyres Recycling, Envirolec SW, Esterlam International, and Plymstock United FC.  

 

“We are absolutely overwhelmed by this generosity, and so thankful knowing the funds will go towards such an incredible team, a fantastic unit, and our hospital family.” 

 

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to Birch DCU for the outstanding care they have given Jack and our family over the past few months. We have missed them dearly and it was so special to reunite this weekend.”  

 

A huge thank you to everyone who made this fundraiser possible, especially Jack and Abigail. We’re so grateful for all your support and wish you the very best for the future. 

 

Would you like to say thanks for the care you or a loved one received at one of our hospitals?

Donate today or get in touch with our team about organising a fundraiser.