Echo News Fundraiser launched by Southend Ladies' goalkeeper after shock cancer diagnosis

[Evening Echo]

Southend United Ladies goalkeeper has launched an ambitious fundraiser after receiving a shock cancer diagnosis

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[essexshrimper]

Could the club do something at one of our home games?

Make it a cancer awareness day or something like that?

Justin did say that he wanted a 1 club philosophy including the women’s side

 

[THE SEVENTIES NORTH BANK]

Charity - Molly is channelling her energy into fundraising for Lymphoma Action (Image: Molly Lee)
Trainee Reporter.
By George Pizani.

FACING cancer is a harrowing experience for anyone.

But for Southend United Ladies’ goalkeeper Molly Lee, dealing with lymphoma has seen her life flipped on its head.

After receiving her diagnosis on New Year’s Eve, Molly has gone from spending hours on the pitch at Garon Park to days spent “staring at walls” of hospital wards.

Unity - Molly's dad, Gary, and brothers, Jack and Freddie, recently shaved their heads in solidarity (Image: Molly Lee)

With a strong sense of determination and drive, the talented player has now embarked on a fundraising mission for a charity that has supported her throughout her journey with cancer.
“The nurses directed me to Lymphoma Action straight after my diagnosis, and I began reading their booklets and scanning the website for any services that would benefit me,” said Molly, 25.

“They offer all sorts, including a buddy programme where you are matched with someone with a similar diagnosis, age and treatment process as you, and that has been really helpful.

“I’ve also spent a lot of time on their Facebook page connecting with others facing Lymphoma and have made quite a few friends that I communicate with daily.”

Tough - Molly is determined to make it back onto the pitch (Image: Molly Lee)

She added: “At a time in my life where I was so clueless, it was all made that bit easier by the team at Lymphoma Action and for that I will be forever grateful.”

Lymphoma is a form of cancer that begins in the immune system and affects a person’s white blood cells. In addition, the services Molly has used, Lymphoma Action also offers a range information, advice and counselling to patients.

Team - Molly has had the support of her Southend United Ladies teammates (Image: Molly Lee)

For Molly, who lives in Wickford, adjusting to life post-diagnosis has been a challenge.

She has been playing for Southend in some capacity since she was 12, and is currently in her third season in the club’s ladies’ squad.

In a matter of weeks, the goalie went from training daily in the gym and playing regular matches to receiving gruelling treatment on hospital wards.

Change - Molly's life has been upended by her diagnosis (Image: Molly Lee)

“It’s been quite difficult and massively hit me at the beginning,” she said.

“Seeing all of my friends carrying on with football and training has been a mental struggle, as has not being able to exercise regularly.

“I know I will get back on the pitch, and my last treatment session will take place on May 27.”

Molly is now channelling her energy into fundraising for Lymphoma Action, describing their support as “vital”.

Support - Molly is backed by family, friends and Southend United fans (Image: Molly Lee)

She has already raised £2,000 of her original £500 target and is due to take on the Bridges of London walk on June 22, which consists of walking seven miles and crossing ten Bridges, to raise money and awareness around Lymphoma.

“The club have been amazing and I’d just like to say a massive thank you to all of my family, friends and everyone who has already donated,” she said.

“There’s even talks at the moment about the club doing a fundraiser for Lymphoma Action.”

“I am asking for anything you can spare from pennies to pounds so the team at Lymphoma Action can carry on their amazing work,” she added.

You can donate to Molly’s fundraiser at https://justgiving.com/page/mollylymphomalee1

 

[davewebbsbrain]

Having seen Molly play numerous times, I know how feisty she is. She doesn't take any prisoners.
If anyone is gonna beat this and get back onto the pitch, Molly is.