DROITWICH will be hosting its very own Soccer Aid at the town’s Rugby Club next Saturday, June 18, to raise funds for Orchid – Fighting Male Cancer.
Simon Graham was one of the organisers of the match and took the decision after his friend developed testicular cancer during lockdown.
He suffered in silence until his family made him go to the doctor, and he did not tell his friends about his condition until the lockdown had ended.
His friend was swiftly diagnosed upon going to the doctor and was able to have surgery.
After announcing the match was taking place, Simon discovered more of his friends had also dealt with many different forms of cancer in the past.
The group openly discusses the need for men to talk about physical and mental health issues on social media.
Since the match was first organised, one of Simons’s teammates has also developed testicular cancer.
Simon said: “He found it much easier to express his concerns and thankfully he is now in remission.”
The match will kick off at 3.30pm with the teams competing for a memorial shield.
The match will be followed by a free disco, a raffle and a sports memorabilia auction where people will be able to get their hands on items including a signed Anthony Joshua boxing glove and a signed Kevin Keegan England football shirt.
Food will be available to buy all day and food and drink can be consumed pitchside.
Attendees are urged to bring deckchairs, sit on the left side (opposite the dugout) and are asked to make sure they dispose of their litter in the on-site bins or refuse bags.
Simon added: “The stigma of men not being able to confide in family and friends with such a delicate but deadly subject prompted us to organise this football match.
“We hope that this can become an annual event that can help to raise awareness.”
Search for ‘Droitwich Soccer Aid’ on Facebook for more information.
