Sunderland fan to collect in memory of Newcastle fan at the derby game

A Sunderland supporter will hold a collection amongst fellow mackems in memory of a Newcastle-supporting friend, at Sunday's Tyne-Wear derby game.

18 year old Ryan Robson of Seaburn has fought cancer twice, and met Newcastle supporter Jordan Thompson when they were both receiving treatment at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary. The pair became friends and got involved in fund-raising activities for the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Ryan was diagnosed with acute lymphatic leukaemia when he was six and had two years of treatment. But after six years in remission the cancer returned. After two more years of treatment he is again in remission and has been told the leukaemia is unlikely to return.

Jordan, from West Denton, underwent three months of intensive chemotherapy and went into remission. But in April last year, he suffered a relapse and needed chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. He underwent the transplant, but after picking up an infection died in intensive care last September. He was 15.

Now Ryan hopes that supporters will put rivalries aside and contribute to the Jordan David Thompson Memorial Fund for the Teenage Cancer Trust North East. Donations will go to the cancer treatment unit at the RVI where both Jordan and Ryan were treated.

Ryan said, "We became really good friends. We used to take the mick out of each other because of the football. I was devastated when Jordan died. He was a good lad and would do anything to help anyone.

"All the money donated goes to a good cause. I would urge people to dig deep in their pockets."

To contribute to the Jordan David Thompson Memorial Fund or find out more:
Phone 0753 4284608
email andrea.thompson@teenagecancertrust.org
write to 8 Gofton Walk, West Denton, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 2PN.

Donations to the fund can be made to the fund via the Nationwide branch in New Bridge Street, Newcastle.