When I was 14, I stood in the practice area at Royal Hoylake during the British Open with my dad by my side and VIP tickets thanks to Teenage Cancer Trust. I was undergoing chemotherapy. Then Tiger Woods walked onto the practice area. My dad (being the Scouse chancer he is) pushed me in front of Tiger and pulled off my cap to show I’d lost all my hair. Without hesitation, Tiger signed my cap and put it back on my head. That moment is a core memory I’ll never forget.

For a long time, I kept my cancer experience private. But this year, as I run the London Marathon for Teenage Cancer Trust, I feel it’s time to share my story.

Before cancer, I was riding high after beating Tommy Fleetwood in the Sefton Junior Matchplay semi-final. But just days before my 14th birthday, my world turned upside down. After a trip to A&E, I found myself at Alder Hey Hospital, being prepped for a biopsy. I woke up to be told I’d been in a coma for six days. The diagnosis was stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. I had a 60-70% chance of surviving the next five years.

Cancer is brutal, but in those teenage years, it’s even harder. Chemotherapy takes a toll—losing hair, energy, and your immune system. The real struggle, though, is mental. Missing school, returning looking different, and watching friends live out their teenage years while yours is on pause. It shakes your confidence and puts a huge strain on your family.

I was lucky. I had my mum, dad, sister and grandparents supporting me, but I also had Teenage Cancer Trust. Others weren’t so lucky. During my time at Alder Hey, I met young people who didn’t make it. I think about them often.

That’s why I’m asking for your help. Please donate to Teenage Cancer Trust and give young people with cancer a chance. Every donation helps ensure more kids can beat cancer and have their own Tiger Woods moment.

P.S. And for anyone wondering, I did go on to win the matchplay final