Young fan's heartfelt 10K run raises £1,500 for beloved footballer's cancer battle

An inspiring 11-year-old and devoted Dale fan has organised a 10K run to raise funds for his favourite player, who is battling cancer for the third time.

Young Ethan, from Whitworth, was sad to hear that former Rochdale AFC midfielder Joe Thompson was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin's lymphoma, and decided he wanted to do something to help.

Joe was cleared of nodular sclerosis Hodgkin lymphoma in June 2014 after six months of chemotherapy. However, in March 2017, the footballer confirmed the cancer had returned after a tumour was found on his chest.

He stopped playing while he underwent more treatment - including a stem cell transplant - and was told he was in complete remission again after fighting back, returning to football and Rochdale in December 2017.
 

Read more: Former Rochdale player Joe Thompson reveals devastating news that he has cancer for the third timePublished: 12 April 2024

Young Ethan who says he “adores” Joe, did his first ever 10k run on 26 May, from The Oxford Pub on Whitworth Road, through Healey Dell nature reserve and through Whitworth up to Cowm Reservoir before circling back.

Proud dad Peter Coad told Rochdale Online News: “Ethan absolutely adores him, he’s always been a massive fan and followed his every game.

“When he was diagnosed for the third time, he turned to me and said he needs to do something to help.

“We looked into it and all the organised 10k runs have a rule about being over 15 to take part, but even that didn’t put him off. He decided he was doing his own instead.

“It wasn’t long before all his mates were joining in, he was coming home from school with more people who wanted to help as well. It’s been great.

He added: “Ethan’s been a season ticket holder since he was four years old. He goes to all the home games and loves Rochdale like you wouldn’t believe. But Joe was always his favourite player.”

As per Ethan’s request, funds will be sent directly to Joe Thompson.

At the time of publication, Ethan had raised £1,570. He is still raising funds for Joe Thompson. Donations are being gratefully received via his fundrasing page:

Ethan's Go Fund Me Page