A beloved father from the West Midlands is facing a devastating stage 3 cancer diagnosis after a doctor initially reassured him that a lump in his neck was not a cause for concern.
A Dismissed Symptom Leads to a Shocking Diagnosis
Matt Green, a 34-year-old drainage engineer from Stourbridge, first sought medical help after noticing a swelling in his neck. He was told by a doctor that his lymph nodes were simply swollen and that he should carry on as normal, thinking it was nothing serious.
However, when the lumps persisted for around a year, the concerned father consulted a different doctor. This GP acted decisively, sending Matt for urgent tests and treating the symptom as potentially sinister. Tragically, on August 6 this year, Matt received the heartbreaking news that he has stage 3 lymph node cancer, which he was informed had spread to his chest.
Family Rally with Chemotherapy and Fundraising Support
Matt is now undergoing an intensive course of chemotherapy to fight the disease. The treatment, which is set to continue for several months, has significantly impacted the family's finances. His statutory sick pay represents a substantial cut from his normal wages.
In response, a family friend, Chloe Mapstone, from Redditch, set up a GoFundMe page to support Matt, his wife Robyn, and their two children. The campaign aims to ensure the family can have the best Christmas possible during this incredibly difficult time. The fundraiser has already garnered an incredible outpouring of support, raising close to £4,000 in donations.
A Community's Effort to Create Precious Memories
Chloe, 24, who works in a nursery, explained the motivation behind the campaign. She highlighted the family's shock and gratitude for the community's generosity. The funds will help create moments of joy and alleviate financial pressure, allowing the family to focus on being together.
A post on the fundraising page describes Matt as a loving father, devoted son, and cherished friend with a smile that lights up a room. It calls on the community to come together to provide comfort and create lasting memories for his wife, children, and parents this Christmas.
