Rich’s magical special break to Cornwall
Rich, 38, from Ashford in Kent, is receiving ongoing care after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Willow Special Day Coordinator, Claire, worked with him to plan a special break that truly reflected who he is – a lifelong adventurer with a deep love of the ocean.
Rich’s special break was filmed and shown to guests at our annual Willow Ball. He and his best friend and special break companion, Tim, spoke at the ball in 2025 about his experience of living with cancer and his special break.
Rich’s special break
“You forget bad memories and smile.”
Rich’s story
Rich spent his earlier years as an armourer, a footballer, a golfer, a glider and an all-round sports lover. Life changed dramatically when he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
“I’ve got a brain tumour that changed my life, which is rubbish. Focusing on what I can’t do anymore – that’s a big one.”
Following a successful 12-hour operation, Rich remained upbeat, but a second surgery and the complications that followed brought new challenges. Treatment, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy, affected him both physically and emotionally.
“I got a great job in London, then went travelling around the world. I came back for a brain scan and misery arrived. Treatment made me put on weight instantly, changing my hot surfer appearance. It made me miserable and I had a lot of seizures.”
When his health declined further, Rich spent two years in a care home, an experience he describes bluntly: “It was rubbish. Please, don’t do it.”
Life began to change again when he was finally offered his own space, independence and a step toward rebuilding.
Rich and Tim’s special break in Cornwall
Throughout everything, one passion never left Rich: surfing.
Having crafted his own wooden surfboard with Otter Surfboards, Willow’s Claire organised for Rich to return to their Annual Gathering in Porthtowan. It’s a place filled with community, laughter and a strong connection to the sea. Rich and his friend Tim travelled to Cornwall to join fellow surfers for the gathering and a day out on the waves.
“My special break was everything. It helped me forget bad memories and smile by being amongst a group of surfers and great people that feel the same as me with their wooden surfboards and waves.
Rich’s special break wasn’t just a trip, it was a “truly magical” reminder of freedom and joy in the middle of an unimaginably difficult journey.
“I loved the special break that Willow organised for me.”
“Thank you for creating memories I can treasure.”
Willow provides special experiences for seriously ill young adults, like Rich. Donate today to help more families create lasting memories.