Sheffield student spreads Stephen’s story

Following the story of close friend and inspirational teenager, Stephen Sutton, Sheffield student Adam Coles joins hundreds of supporters in fundraising for the Teenage Cancer Trust. This is the story of Stephen Sutton, a 19-year old teenager with terminal cancer. Embracing an inspirationally positive attitude, Stephen started a campaign to raise money for fellow teens fighting cancer.

“Cancer sucks but life is great”. Stephen remains positive despite his situation

The campaign went viral, with support from famous faces such as Jason Manford and Jack Whitehall. Along with the huge amount of public donations and support, it has raised over £3 million for Teenage Cancer trust- well over Stephen’s initial £10,000 target.

Adam has taken the fundraising events to Sheffield in efforts to support Stephen and the Teenage Cancer Trust. A part of this, Adam and hundreds of other of Stephen’s friends have been giving out good gestures, such as free hugs and high fives, as part of national ‘good gestures’ day.

Adam (second left) and fellow supporters giving ‘good gestures’ in support of Stephen’s campaign.

Adam says “the fundraising is coming from kind people who have been inspired by Stephen’s story”. He also admits: “it’s had a huge impact on my life and made me realise how having a positive attitude towards life can help you get so much more out of it.”

Despite the campaign’s success, Stephen has recently faced abuse on twitter. Following an improvement in his condition, twitter trolls responded saying they felt ‘duped’ into donating money.

Stephen replied: “Sorry to disappoint you! So you know, I still have my cancer and it’s still incurable if that makes you feel less ‘duped’.” Adam defended his response, adding “it’s just best to ignore it”. Fellow students also agree; Laura, a second year orthoptics student, said “It’s disgusting; these people are nothing more than keyboard warriors.”

Stephen’s story has been supported by many famous faces, including Jack Whitehall

Charlotte, a second year Economics student, said “What Stephen and his friends have achieved is amazing, £3 million is an incredible amount to raise! Stephen’s attitude is inspiring, it makes you realise how lucky you are and that you should make the most of life.” Personally, we couldn’t agree more. So maybe it’s time to brush off that hangover, get out of bed and make the most of it! Been inspired by Stephen’s story? Donate here.