Family's plea to raise £65,000 for potentially life-saving cancer treatment - The Stratford Observer

Family's plea to raise £65,000 for potentially life-saving cancer treatment

Stratford Editorial 24th Sep, 2018 Updated: 24th Sep, 2018   0

A FAMILY is hoping to raise £65,000 to fund potentially life-saving cancer treatment for a much-loved Kenilworth dad.

Carl Smith suffers from Paraganglioma, a rare form of cancer which doctors say has spread around his body.

The 45-year-old is currently in isolation in hospital while he undergoes a new radioactive treatment. It follows a failed operation to remove one of his kidneys, most of his liver and a blood vessel.

Carl and his family have had a turbulent couple of years since he was diagnosed – losing his Dad and younger brother to cancer and having his 15-year-old daughter Ellie diagnosed with kidney cancer.




The Smith’s history with the disease led former graphic designer Carl to get a test which showed a mutated gene leading to a higher risk of the illness.

A family spokeswoman said: “Following his diagnosis and the heart-breaking loss of his close family members, Carl was asked to see a geneticist to see if his family had inherited a gene that made them more likely to develop cancer. They confirmed he had a mutated version of a gene which increases the risk of developing a number of types of cancer.


“Following further tests, it was confirmed Carl’s brother and both Carl’s daughters had also inherited the gene.

“During these impossible times, he could have easily given up hope, but instead his battle inspired him to help others in need.

“In memory of his brother Daniel, Carl organised a number of charity events which resulted in funds being raised and donated to nine young adults battling different stages of cancer.”

To give Carl the best chance of recovery after he finishes his current treatment in hospital, he can have three other therapies.

But the extra treatments are not paid for on the NHS and will cost around £65,000, which the family is trying to raise money to for.

Family friend Caroline Quirke said: “Carl’s kindness, humility and strength has touched and changed the lives of many. He has helped so many others even though he continues to face his own long and unforgiving battle with cancer. To give Carl the best opportunity he can to spend quality time with his family he needs support to raise funds for life-saving treatments.

“As someone who has witnessed this family’s bravery, courage and resiliency first-hand, I know they are truly deserving of help and support. I hope the generosity and understanding of others will help this amazing individual spend more quality time with his family.”

Visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/carlsmith to donate or find out more.

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