Terminally-ill Sheffield man raises thousands with Elvis-themed sponsored walk

Chris Gott, who is originally from Pitsmoor but now lives in Castlebeck, was diagnosed with cancer last October, and two months ago was given the terrible news there was nothing more medics could do for him.

But Chris didn’t let that stop him from putting others first, with the 56-year-old vowing to undertake a four-mile sponsored walk from Meadowhall to Sheffield city centre dressed as his musical hero Elvis.

Chris has worked at Co-op Funeralcare for 18 years, with funeral arranger Janice Mason saying it is an ‘honour’ to have him as a friend and colleague.

She said: “We are the lucky ones for having Chris as a friend. He has such a massive heart and even through the lockdown and him being poorly he has thought of others.”

Another colleague, Tracey Wilson said ‘everyone’ in the funeral care business knew him.

“Chris is such a good lad and is always thinking of others,” she added.

Many current and former colleagues joined him on the walk as well as clergy and florists he has worked with over the years and families he has helped.

After the walk, Chris made a special visit to Catcliffe police station to thank the motorcycle outriders who had guided him through the city with a fruit box.

A cheque for £2,500 was presented to St Luke’s on Friday outside the Co-op funeral home on Abbey Lane.

When Chris’ walk was announced, The Star’s Facebook page was inundated with people wishing him well.

Caroline Chambers said: “This lovely man drove the car that followed my dad last year. He was such a lovely bloke and spoke to use the whole time.”

And Karen Faram said: “One of the nicest people I know and a great guy to work with. Good luck with the walk Chris.”

As well as the walk, Chris’ friends, family and colleagues also recently arranged a ‘flash mob’ for him where he performed Elvis songs while dressed up as the legendary crooner.

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