News

An Unforgettable Adventure

Swansea lad's sailing trip of a lifetime with Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust

Lewis (left) aboard an Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust yacht

An 18-year-old cancer survivor has told how a sailing adventure helped him boost his confidence and move forward with his life.

Lewis, from Swansea, was a month short of his 17th birthday when he first received his devastating cancer diagnosis.

Stronger Than Ever

Now, a year later, he has just completed his first ever sailing trip - off the coast of the Isle of Wight - with charity the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. Lewis spent four days aboard a yacht with other children and young people from across Britain, who have all received a cancer diagnosis.

The Trust, which has received more than £4 Million in funding raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery, takes young people aged 8-24 on sailing trips to help them live life to the fullest after cancer has been identified.

Lewis said it had been an adventure he would never forget, "This trip was all about confidence. It was a great experience.

"I just wanted to get out there, take my mind off everything and enjoy the trip with like-minded people, who've been through similar things.

"I do martial arts for a living and teach and train Jiu-Jitsu. I couldn't do that while having the operation and I had to have radiotherapy after that, so I had been away for a long time. But I feel I'm coming back into it, and I am stronger than I was before.

"Having treatment put some things into perspective. I've now stopped worrying and I am focusing on my main priorities. My confidence grew and grew on the sailing trip. I learned a new skill and made new friends. It was great."

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People's Postcode Lottery, said, "It's wonderful to hear how the Trust has helped Lewis regain his confidence. It's stories such as Lewis' that show the importance of the work of the Trust. They are there to help you be part of a team that always supports each other."

Making A Difference

People's Postcode Lottery players are helping deserving causes like Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust make a difference every single day. Read more about the range of Charities which our players support.