A Dorset teenager is walking 100 miles throughout October to raise £250 for Teenage Cancer Trust, a goal he is just over halfway to meeting.
Tom Rogers, 19, was inspired by adverts he’d seen online. He started with this walk as it felt more manageable than running, but sees that as a “challenge for the coming months.”
Tom’s decision to fundraise for Teenage Cancer Trust is rooted in a worry that it could affect those he’s closest to.
He said: “It’s quite devastating that teenagers like me, like my sister, could be diagnosed with cancer, and that’s why I’ve chosen this charity because that’s a scary thought.”
After struggles with his own mental health, Tom sees this as a fun experience that is motivating him to get up and out of the house and bring his friends and family along for the ride.
He recently completed his longest walk yet of 18 miles, and when he got home, as exhausted as he was, wanted to do another.
He would “encourage people to do the same,” as the personal benefits he’s felt have been nothing but positive.
Response from his family has been supportive too, he added: “My mum’s proud of me, my aunt is proud of me; however, I’m proud of it, and that’s all that really matters.”
With many more charities in mind for next time, Tom wants to keep making a difference and doing more beyond this October.
Teenage Cancer Trust relies on donations from the public, which is why fundraisers, such as Tom’s and the awareness they bring, are so important.
These donations fund specialist nurses and youth workers who support young people through their diagnosis, treatments and navigating life after.
They provide care through tough and scary times so young people can see the light at the end of the tunnel and start shaping their own future.
Alongside individual support they provide information in a more palatable way and run events to help teenagers regain their independence during this tough time.
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