As many of you are aware, Mr Tunnadine is a well-loved and highly respected member of staff. He has been at West Park for many years and during that time hundreds of pupils have benefitted from his passion and enthusiasm for teaching, not to mention the professional experience he brings to the team and support he provides to all members of staff.

In December 2021 Mr Tunnadine was diagnosed with a form of leukaemia. We are aware that this is an illness that has impacted many members of the community within Porthcawl over the years. West Park would like to undertake a Charity Walk to raise funds for Leukaemia research charities. The walk will take place on Friday October 3rd and will involve the whole school. More details will follow. This is Mr Tunnadine’s story in his own words:

"Dear Parents and Carers,

My name is Mr. Tunnadine, and I’ve had the privilege of teaching at West Park Primary School for the past 23 years.

In December 2021, I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukaemia. Since then, I’ve undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy, numerous bone marrow biopsies, countless blood transfusions, and a stem cell transplant that thankfully kept me in remission for nearly two years.

Sadly, the cancer returned last year. It was devastating news, especially as I had just returned to work and was beginning to enjoy a sense of normality again.

Much of this year has been spent travelling to The Christie Hospital in Manchester to take part in experimental clinical trials. I’ve been fortunate to receive cutting-edge treatments—treatments made possible by vital leukaemia research. I’ve also donated additional samples so that hospitals across the country can continue developing better ways to fight this disease.

This is where the incredible children and families of West Park can make a real difference.

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month, and all funds raised will go directly to leukaemia research. Without the tireless work of researchers and the support of people like you, the life-saving trial drugs I’m taking today simply wouldn’t exist.

I’m deeply grateful for the medical care I’ve received, but even more so for the love and support from the West Park community. Raising money for cancer research is incredibly important to me, and I want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone for your continued kindness and generosity.

With sincere thanks

Mr. Tunnadine