Fundraiser for Sheffield student with incurable brain tumour raises £15,000 in 24 hours

Sheffield Hallam University computer science student Jacob Whitehead 22, was tragically diagnosed with a stage 4 Glioblastoma multiforme or GBM tumour in March.

GBM tumours affect just 3.21 individuals per 100,000 and are very aggressive and difficult to treat as they often eventually spread to other parts of the brain.

Only 20 per cent of those with the condition live for a further five years after diagnosis.

After hearing his devastating news, Jacob’s housemates and some of his other friends from Sheffield and from back home set up a What’s App group to help raise funds for him.

And less than a day after the group launched their appeal on the Go Fund Me online fundraising site, the total has already almost reached an astonishing £15,000.

Luke Walsh, one of Jacob’s university housemates who set up the page, said the close group of friends wanted to do something that would ‘shine a light’ for him for when his treatment is over.

“Jacob has just been really positive about it and we are all trying to keep him as happy as we can,” he said.

“He has always wanted to go travelling to places like Australia, New Zealand and Japan so this will hopefully give him something to look forward to.

“There are 17 of us in the group chat and we’ve all been pushing the appeal to friends and friends of friends - trying to get it to go as far on social media as we possibly can.”

Jacob is currently back home in Manchester getting treatment but he is hoping to return to Sheffield to complete the third year of his degree before going travelling this time next year.

Writing on Facebook, Jacob’s stepdad John Thompson said: “The way this young guy is dealing with the dreadful prognosis is nothing short of outstanding and we are simply amazed at what his friends are trying to do for Jacob.

“We would be really grateful if you could help Jacob fulfil his dream trip.”

To donate visit https://uk.gofundme.com/f/JW-travelling-costs.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.