In September I will be running the Maldon Half Marathon in aid of raising funds for Baby Tobias Duncan-Hambolu, born on 28th September 2016.

Tobias’ mummy is my stepdaughters closest friend and Tobias is a couple of months younger than my granddaughter. When I found out about Tobias my heart sank and I believe that no one couldn’t be moved by his story. An innocent child having to go through so much treatment and side effects on a daily basis, yet despite the intensive treatment, constant sickness, long hospitalisation stays and MRI’s etc this beautiful little boy Tobias always has a smile on his face.
I am asking if you could kindly take a few minutes to read below and if possible contribute in helping to raise funds so we can attempt to get the treatment that Tobias requires overseas so he can have a happy future like so many other children.

Toby was 8 weeks old, doctors found a lump in his stomach and he was admitted to hospital. After lots of tests he was diagnosed with Infantile Fibrosarcoma, an extremely rare malignant (cancerous) tumor that originates in the connective fibrous tissue and spreads rapidly. Toby currently has tumours in his spine and his abdomen.

Unfortunately, the first chemotherapy Toby was put on didn't work, and he grew three new tumours in a matter of weeks. Toby has now been placed on a more intensive course of chemotherapy, if this doesn't work, it will mean his tumour is chemo-resistant. The next options available in England are bleak - either radical surgery with removal of organs, or radiotherapy, which can be very damaging for such a small baby.

Only option available is a revolutionary medical trial taking place in the US and Spain, using medication that directly targets the gene fusion that causes Toby's tumour. The trial has been getting really promising results, and could be vital for Toby. The drug company has agreed to donate the cost of the medicine but the other parts of the treatment are extremely expensive.