A YOUNGSTER battling cancer is spending Christmas in hospital in the USA.
Alex Goodwin, the son of Rugby PC Jeff Goodwin, was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma – a rare form of cancer – in June after struggling with constant pain.
Since then Warwickshire and West Mercia police forces have rallied around the nine year-old and his family from Lutterworth to raise money for his treatment.
They raised enough money to send Alex to Kansas to undergo a special treatment programme, culminating in an operation in the new year.
Now in Children’s Mercy Hospital in the town of Topeka, Alex has already had a visit from his dad’s American counterparts, as law enforcement officers from all across Kansas and Missouri showed some transatlantic solidarity – covered by a local TV station.
And before Alex left the UK, Ch Con Martin Jelley and Asst Ch Con Amanda Blakeman were among the many officers and staff who came to Rugby to meet present him with a cheque for £20,000.
PC Goodwin’s Inspector Lucy Sewell said: “Alex has touched the hearts of people from all over the world. He is a brave young man and remains so positive despite all the treatment, always thinking of others. We are continuing the fundraising to help support him through his journey.”
Dad Jeff said: “We want to thank everyone for their amazing hard work, generosity and overwhelming support for Alexander.
“None of this would have been possible had it not been for the generosity and support of each and everyone one of you. Not only has the financial support been unbelievable but the acts of kindness offered by people all over the UK and the world as been overwhelming.
“We can’t thank you all enough.”
Funds were raised by colleagues running everything from bake sales to sponsored silences to help Alex.
A charity music single Horizon on my Mind was written and recorded by members of Warwickshire Police and volunteers, and is available to download for £1. Visit www.alexsjourney.co.uk for more information.
Click here to see Kansas TV station 13WIBW’s report on Alex.
