Charlie’s dream day at the UFC

Charlie, who is 17, enjoyed a day at the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) at The O2, following treatment for osteosarcoma.

“It’s been a difficult four years for Charlie and just to know there are such caring, wonderful charities like Willow who want to show him how important he is, means a lot.”

Charlie’s story

“After I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in my femur bone in April 2022, life became very difficult. A year of chemo, life changing limb salvage surgery and immunotherapy mean I can never run, play my favourite sports or go into the RAF or construction industry, as I had planned.

“My cancer and the surgeries have impacted my whole family. However, we keep positive and I hope I can now heal and get my life back on track. I’ve missed a lot of school time but did still manage to pass my GCSEs so I keep focused. We all have fear but also have hope and positive thoughts. We are so grateful to all the amazing doctors, nurses and kind charities who have helped us through this journey.”

Dawn, Charlie’s mum, shared what the day meant to them both:

“We spent so much time in hospital. This was a wonderful, happy event to always cherish.”

“Charlie was so grateful to receive the offer of a Special Day from Willow. His eyes lit up when I told him he had UFC tickets. Watching his grin and excitement was precious. It’s been a difficult four years for Charlie and just to know there are such caring, wonderful charities like Willow who want to show him how important he is, means a lot.

“It was so nice to have mother and son time that was fun. We spent so much time in hospital where it was harsh, scary, upsetting, painful and boring. This was a wonderful, happy event to always cherish.”

Willow provides special experiences for seriously ill young adults, like Charlie. Donate today to help more families create lasting memories.

Find out more about what we’re doing to support young men living with cancer, on our project page.