When Stephen Sutton lost his battle with cancer five years ago tomorrow, he had already raised £3.6million thanks to his steely determination to help others.
But the inspirational 19-year-old’s influence did not stop there.
The figure has since reached more than £5.7million, giving a vital cash boost to several treatment centres.
Stephen captured hearts across the globe by posted an emotional but uplifting farewell message from hospital urging people to donate to the Teenage Cancer Trust, six weeks before he died.
Mum Jane has told of her pride at her son’s legacy. She said: “His story brought out the best in human kind. To this day, it continues to bring out the best in people.
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“Stephen would be overjoyed to see what has been achieved five years on, £5.7million would be beyond his wildest dreams.
“Stephen wanted to be a doctor so raising money and awareness for the Teenage Cancer Trust was his way of getting to help others and make a difference.”
In April 2014 – believing he was just days from death – Stephen shared a thumbs up selfie with the caption: “That’s it from me. But life has been good. Thank you for sharing this wonderful journey.”
His post spread across the world and donations soon soared past the £1million mark after the campaign was backed by stars including Jason Manford and David Beckham.
He had been diagnosed with metastatic bowel cancer at 15.
When told it was incurable, Stephen, of Burntwood, Staffs, set up a bucket-list of 46 things to do.
He managed to complete 35, including playing the drums in front of 90,000 fans at the 2013 Wembley Champions League final.
Stephen wanted to raise £10,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
But Jane has kept the fundraising efforts going. She said: “I didn’t want his work to stop. I also want to make sure people don’t forget him.”
In October 2014, Stephen was the first person to be given a Daily Mirror Pride of Britain award posthumously for his courage.
- To find out more or donate, please visit teenagecancertrust.org.
