Delph teenager’s amazing birthday gesture in memory of her great uncle
Reporter: Ken Bennett
Date published: 26 October 2020
Alice with her great uncle Andy
Caring Alice Brooks has unselfishly forfeited her birthday treats in memory of her great uncle who tragically died of cancer.
Alice, from Delph and pupil at Saddleworth School, celebrated her 14th birthday at the weekend. But she made a decision to forego her personal girls celebration after she lost her great uncle, Andy Sweeney, earlier this year.
She said: “This year for my birthday I decided to ask for donations to cancer research. It’s been a tough year for us all, especially charities who are struggling to raise money due to the impact of coronavirus.
“I am fortunate enough to have all the things I need, so I thought I’d ask family and friends to make a small donation to cancer research, in memory of my great Uncle Andy who passed away in August.
“My target was to raise £250 but amazingly, due to the generosity of my family and friends, I have reached over £500.
“Cancer affects us all in one way or another and I am truly grateful for all the kind donations,” she added.
Alice’s great aunt and Andy’s widow, Lesley Sweeney, said: “So often our teenagers get bad press, it is so refreshing to praise them for things like this.
“Alice decided to do this completely by herself obviously her mum had to set up the just giving page as she is under 18.
“I think at a time when teenagers are restricted, bored and a bit socially frustrated it is lovely when they inspire us older ones with their kindness.”
Lesley and Andy were married for 47 years and Andy signed professional with Oldham Athletic in 1970 after playing and starring in the reserve side for several seasons.
He was in the promotional squad that took Latics from the 4th division to 2nd and went with them on tours of Spain and Portugal in the summer of 1973.
He played for Rochdale, Bury and Witton Albion and part time professional for Stalybridge and Mossley. He retired from part time professional when he was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma at the age of 33.
To donate to cancer research at Alice’s just giving page, go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/adele-brooks?utm_source=Sharethis&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=adele-brooks&utm_campaign=pfp-email&utm_term=8687d0ec9af043eab8eaf0dbaa4c5534
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