Solihull cancer patient aims to raise £64k for charities in 12 months

A Solihull man has set himself a huge challenge of raising £64k for charities by the time he reaches the age of 64 on 16th October 2016.

Trevor Stokes, 63, received a diagnosis for inoperable stomach cancer in 2015 – and was given a prognosis of 6 – 12months to live.

After hearing the news, Trevor decided to set himself the challenge to reach his 64th birthday – and raise the amazing amount for charities through a series of fun challenges and events.

Despite currently going through chemotherapy treatment at The Christie Cancer Clinic in Manchester, Trevor has been working hard to organize a series of ’64’ themed events to raise the cash.

A 64 Mile bike ride has already taken place raising over £1,000, and more challenges are set for April, as well as a huge fundraising Masquerade Ball in Solihull set to happen on 9th July at the St John’s Hotel in Solihull.

Trevor began his challenges on New Year’s Day when he and friends did 64 press ups on the beach followed by an early morning swim in the sea. He also had his head, beard, moustache and eyebrows shaved off for charity before commencing his chemotherapy treatment.

The money raised is being split between four charities that are very dear to Trevor – Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie Cancer Care, The Christie Charity and Liam’s Smiles.

Trevor said “I may fail hopelessly in raising the target of £64,000, but there can be no losers here, as whatever is raised goes to good causes, and it gives me a purpose to push onwards and upwards.

“My motto is “Deeds4Dough”, so I hope people join me in having some fun and raising money for these brilliant charities”

Support has started to come in from across the world for Trevor’s 64k Challenge, with people offering to take part in challenges, sponsor events and donate money to his amazing cause.

Macmillan’s fundraising manager Liz Sheils for Solihull, said: “We can’t thank Trevor and his family and friends enough for their amazing hard work and dedication to raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

“Trevor is a truly inspirational man, and thanks to his support, we can be there for more people affected by cancer when they need us most.”

The 64k Challenge Fundraising Total currently stands at more than £5,000, with plenty of events planned over the upcoming months, including a golfing challenge and an Easter Sunday 64 lap go-kart race.

Trevor is also in the midst of writing his autobiography by way of a 64 verse ode, which you can find out more about by visiting his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/64kchallenge/

Rebecca Doyle, of Meningitis Charity Liam’s Smiles said: “Trevor’s challenges are to help create the future smiles of others who need lifting up when all seems lost.

“Who needs TV’s 6 million Dollar Man – we have our very own real hero the 64K MAN!”

If you would like to donate to Trevor’s 64K Challenge, please visit: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/64kchallenge

To find out more about fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support, please contact: Liz Sheils on lsheils@macmillan.org.uk or 07713 392643