Barnsley Man Diagnosed with Brain Cancer Takes on Charity Footy Challenge

A Barnsley man who's had two major brain operations and 30 sessions of radiotherapy has told Hallam FM he wants to thank the hospital which has cared for him.

Craig Nettleship (pictured with his wife Claire), 29, from Hoyland, Barnsley was diagnosed with brain cancer last August.

An MRI scan last summer for suspected tinnitus showed a 5cm malignant neoplasm of the brain and since then Craig's been cared for by staff at the Sheffield hospital.

After surviving his second operation he's organised a 24 hour football match to raise money for Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity.

"There was quite a lot of severe possible side effects, for example a stroke or needing full time care if a blood vessel was nicked and the worst was to happen. There were a lot of risks. When I came round from that operation and I felt fine, I told my wife I wanted to do something for charity.

"I had all my radiotherapy treatment there Weston Park Hospital and my oncologist is there too. They've cared for me and conitnue to do so because the tumour isn't gone. It can't all be removed so I'll be under their care for quite some time I imagine so I just wanted to give something back."

He added:

"Due to the aggressive approach my tumour has taken, I’ve gone through 30 sessions of radiotherapy, and after a successful second operation on my brain, I decided to do something fun, challenging and sport related for charity.

"At the moment, there are more than 20 players due to take part in the 5-aside game, but anyone is welcome to turn up to play or spectate.

"It would be overwhelming if there was a great turn out, especially during the day on Saturday when we’ll be nearing the 24 hour mark."

Football has been a part of Craig’s life for over 20 years and after pitching the idea to family and friends, he decided to go ahead with his first charity event.

He's already raised a third of his £1,500 target.

It's taking place at Concord Sports Centre in Sheffield with kick-off at 5pm on Friday 26th June. The final whistle will be at 5pm the next day.

For more information about the game or to sponsor Craig visit: www.justgiving.com/Craig-Nettleship .