A remarkable fundraising effort by 12-year-old Josh Faulkner is making waves in the Yorkshire community. Despite his own ongoing recovery from cancer, Josh, with the help of friends and family, formed the ‘Team Josh’ fundraising group in April 2024. In under a year, they have raised an astounding £36,000 for Candlelighters, a charity that supports children and families affected by cancer in the region.
Josh, who was diagnosed with aggressive lymphoma in August 2023, faced a difficult battle with the disease that required intensive chemotherapy and a four-month stay at Leeds General Infirmary. During this time, he was supported by the Children and Teenage Haematology and Oncology team, who provide specialist care for children with cancer and blood disorders.
Josh’s father, Gavin Faulkner, shared how their lives were turned upside down when the diagnosis came. He explained, “Alongside the excellent medical care Josh received, we’re also very grateful for the practical and emotional support our entire family received from Candlelighters.”
Now in recovery, Josh and his family, alongside friends, decided to give back by raising funds for the charity. Gavin said, “In an effort to channel our energy and give back, we, friends, and family, established ‘Team Josh’ and dedicated ourselves to raising funds for Candlelighters. This money will assist the 150 families who, like us, are embarking on this arduous journey each year.”
The fundraising efforts have included a series of events such as raffles, bake sales, race nights, and even a 1,000-hole golf challenge. Their dedication is unwavering, with further events planned for 2025.
Tom Robertshaw, Head of Fundraising at Candlelighters, expressed his gratitude for Josh and his family’s efforts, saying, “Team Josh have raised an incredible amount for Candlelighters and the other families that we support. Their determination and positivity is an inspiration to us all – they have used one of the biggest challenges anyone could face as a reason to help others and make a difference.”
Candlelighters provides a broad range of support services for children and families facing cancer, from practical help like financial assistance and funded holidays to emotional support through therapy and sibling groups. Fundraising efforts, such as those led by Josh and his team, are critical to sustaining these services.
In recognition of their inspiring efforts, Josh and Candlelighters have received nominations for several categories at the Yorkshire Choice Awards. Josh has been nominated for Local Fundraiser of the Year and Inspirational Individual of the Year, while Candlelighters is up for the Charitable Excellence Award. Voting is open until March 7th.
The success of ‘Team Josh’ highlights the power of community support in making a difference for families affected by childhood cancer. Candlelighters continues to call on individuals, community groups, and businesses to get involved and contribute to the ongoing work of supporting children with cancer across Yorkshire.
For more information on how you can get involved and support Candlelighters, visit their website: How You Can Help