Sheffielders thank ‘inspirational’ cancer survivor who repaid NHS £150,000 for treatment

Andrew Davies, aged 20, was just 13 years old when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form on leukaemia called acute myeloid in 2012.

The brave teenager – with the support of his parents Alison and Paul – began chemotherapy which caused sickness, hair loss, bleeding and bruising. He underwent a bone marrow transplant in January 2013, spending 25 days in isolation.

Six years later, he has raised all of the £150,000 to give back to the NHS.

Some of his fundraising included cycling coast-to-coast and walking the 81-mile Dales Way.

Andrew is now studying for a sports science degree at Liverpool John Moores University.

Dozens of Star readers took to Facebook to wish him all the best for his future and pay thanks for raising the money.

Matthew Gavins posted: “Well done young man. My wife worked there as a student nurse and she will be amazed at what you’ve done, along with all the staff. You are an example to us all.”

Leigh Foster said: “What a amazing young man. Well done, love so proud of you with what you have been through and done.”

Lisa Betts described it as an “absolutely fantastic achievement” and said Andrew was a “true inspiration” to others.

Bridget Walker said: “Utterly Gobsmacked. What a huge sum of money to raise. Thank you.”

Dawn Bell Proctor posted: “Wow. Amazing young man. The world needs more people like Andrew.”

Andrew’s donation will help Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity with a £2.75 million appeal to transform the cancer and leukaemia ward with more space, light and privacy.

It will include private patient rooms with en-suite facilities, giving patients a place to make their own and a space for family or friends to sleep alongside them.