Family of Sheffield boxer who died of cancer launch fundraising appeal to help others

Lee Noble, from Sheffield died in March 2021, aged 33, after being diagnosed with leukaemia in 2014 and receiving a terminal brain cancer diagnosis five years later.

During his treatment, Lee underwent numerous painful bone biopsies, which he said often left him “screaming down the hospital corridors”.

His family said he also took part in a number of trials for less painful bone drills in London and it was one of his final wishes to help others in his position to access the same equipment in South Yorkshire.

Now they are hoping to honour his legacy by raising enough money to fund two years of the drills, helping more than 100 patients who need biopsies.

His mother, Linda Noble said: “Having seen the pain that Lee was in during his treatment, I know what a difference the purchase of these bone drills will make to so many other patients.

“Knowing that Lee is responsible for that gives me so much comfort and makes me so proud.”

The family said they hope the public will get behind the appeal “to allow our champion from inside and outside the ring to win his final fight to help others”.

The family are working with Sheffield Hospitals Charity, which supports five hospitals, including the Royal Hallamshire Hospital, where Lee received most of his treatment, to raise £6,000.

Johnny Nelson, Sky Sports boxing pundit, former cruiserweight world champion and Sheffield Hospitals Charity ambassador, appealed to people to support the cause.

He said: “In the ring Lee was known for his determination and his grit, but hearing about the way that he battled against his illness shows that was true of him outside the ring just as much, he was a true fighter.

“And now the biggest testament I can pay him is that he is still a fighter – fighting to improve the treatment of other people in situations like his and make life just that little bit easier.”

To donate, please go here.

- Reporting by Amber O'Connor, PA