Dad Who Raised $750k For Daughter’s Cancer Treatment Dies, Aged 32

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Tom captured hearts across the country by fighting his own ill health to try and ensure that his adopted daughter Kelli could receive the healthcare that she might need. He passed away this week after fighting a brain tumour for three years.

Kelli had childhood cancer neuroblastoma when she was three months old and then again at three. Doctors believe that she is likely to relapse so Tom decided that he wanted to ensure that she received the best possible medical care if that were the case.

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Tom had previously said that he couldn't die in peace until he knew that he had done everything he possibly could to ensure that Kelli lived a long and happy life.

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Tom's widow, Joely, shared the news on Facebook.

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Speaking to The Mirror, Joely said:

"Tom was my hero. His drive to help Kelli astounded all who knew him. Despite his extreme fatigue and daily seizures, he got out of bed every day to help fundraise. He wanted me to know that although he wouldn't live to any age, Kelli would have the very best chance of life. Thank you to every single person who donated to Kelli's appeal. Once the target was reached, Tom was able to relax and enjoy time with his family. We have such precious memories of him and will miss him unbearably."

Tom and Joely married in April 2014 the same day that he formally adopted Kelli. He completed his family, and in doing so satisfied another one of his wishes, when Joely gave birth to their son, Fletcher, five months ago.

The family are keen to keep Tom's fundraising spirit alive and have set up a Just Giving page for brain tumour research.

RIP Tom. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult period.