A FUND set up in honour of a young DJ which aims to create a better future for people diagnosed with bone cancer has raised over £15,000 in just two months.
Almost half of the sum was the result of a launch night for the fund organised by the grieving brother of Niamh Jobson who died in January after fighting the disease for six years.
Despite the heartbreak of losing his sister just days before her 23rd birthday, Finn Jobson has dedicated himself to achieving Niamh’s selfless wish to help others suffering from osteosarcoma, a particularly aggressive bone cancer which mostly affects children and young adults under 20.
In honour of Niamh, however, a dedicated osteosarcoma fund has now been set up. Established within the Bone Cancer Research Trust, the fund’s sole purpose is to help drive progress in treatment options and to create a better future for others diagnosed with this devastating illness.
To pay tribute to Niamh’s burgeoning career as a DJ which saw her continue with gigs even after her leg was amputated, Finn organised a launch night which was an even bigger success and garnered more support than he had initially hoped.
More than 300 people turned up to enjoy sets from Kairogen, Danny Greenman, Timescape, VXYX, Harry Mawby and LAZLO – a line-up of artists who played with Niamh, knew her well and were inspired by her sound and spirit.
T-shirts emblazoned with Niamh’s professional logo sold out while the venue, SWG3, waived their fees as did videographer Rich Gibbon, ticketing agencies Skiddle and Resident Adviser.
Food was donated by Ben Paterson of SUB126. Raffle prizes were provided by Barry Price of Sub Club, Joshua Barr of West Side Tavern, The Finnieston, Rory MacLean, Ellie Tevendale and Emma Ashby of Kelvin Rooms.
“Everyone involved did their absolute best, especially the DJs,” said Finn, “It was everything I hoped for and more, as I wanted at least 200 people there to make it worthwhile.”
The 20-year-old said the event had been such a success, he hopes to organise more events to continue raising money.
“Niamh never complained but she thought we need to sort this out and give other people a chance,” he said. “She thought if it couldn’t be her, then something had to be done for others, as the treatment is brutal and has not been advanced for far too long.
“Our mission is to change the whole awareness of osteosarcoma as we want to see some advancements in research to give young people the chance at life that they deserve.”
Finn said it was Niamh’s personality that was keeping him going through his devastation.
“If I did not turn the grief into a positive thing then I can literally hear Niamh telling me to shut up, stop moping around and start getting things done. It is Niamh that is keeping us all going.”
You can donate at specialfunds-bcrt.blackbaud-sites.com/niamh-jobson/
