Be More Ben has been set up by Shane and Sarah Pritchard after their son Ben sadly passed away in November 2017, aged 8.

Ben was a fit and healthy boy with a zest for life and a passion for football. He was rarely ill and it came as a huge shock when in May 2017 he told his parents he couldn‘t move his arm properly and after a trip to A&E he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive brain tumour. It was inoperable and incurable and in that instant their lives changed completely.

Throughout his illness the family were supported by CLIC Sargeant, Nottingham QMC, Bristol Children‘s Hospital and Children’s Hospice South West, Charlton Farm. However, Shane and Sarah noticed a gap in provision for bereaved parents and families and decided to set up a charity in Ben’s memory to help families when they need it most.

Be More Ben holds regular coffee mornings and pub nights for parents to get together with other people who understand what its like to lose a child. Nothing formal, just friendship and support. Events for siblings and families will also be held as well as fundraising events bringing the local communities together. There are big plans for the future and with your support, Shane and Sarah hope to be able to make them a reality very soon.

On the anniversary of Ben’s diagnosis, his family and friends are organising a fun day at his football club Portishead Town Sparks. At this event, his football coach Paul Budd is going to shave his head to raise money for Be More Ben. He will be going up on stage in front of the crowds to have his head shaved by Mark from Mark’s Barbers. This is a big deal and Paul would very much appreciate your support. If we raise enough money, the beard might go too!

Thank you