Supporting Prostate Cancer UK

A message from Altrincham FC Community Sports Chair of Trustees, Tony Collier...

I'm writing to express my profound gratitude to Altrincham FC for their exceptional support of Prostate Cancer UK during this year's Non-League Day. 

The recent event marked the 11th anniversary of Prostate Cancer UK's partnership with Non-League Day, and I was immensely proud to see my beloved club play such a crucial role in changing the game for those affected by prostate cancer – the most common cancer in men.
 
My personal journey with prostate cancer began in May 2017 with a diagnosis that shattered my world. In an instant, life's certainties vanished, replaced by devastating questions: Would I see my daughter marry? Would I watch my grandson grow up? The days and months that followed were filled with dark moments and overwhelming fear.
 

Throughout this challenging time, the support I received from Prostate Cancer UK, my friends, family, and crucially, the Altrincham FC community, became my lifeline. Their compassion and solidarity helped me navigate the most difficult period of my life and find a renewed sense of purpose.

What I witnessed at Non-League Day was truly inspiring. The club and its supporters came together with remarkable generosity and enthusiasm. From the matchday collection that exceeded expectations to the managers proudly wearing the charity's badge, the money raised through a shirt giveaway following a collaboration with Athletic Bilbao and both teams wearing Prostate Cancer UK shirts – our beautiful game was on full display, both on and off the pitch. 

And I’d like to thank Aaron McLean and Natalie Pike who interviewed me as part of DAZN’s coverage of The National League’s Altrincham v Barnet fixture. I was also able to share my story and our activities on the day and share Prostate Cancer UK’s online risk checker tool with those watching the game. 

The atmosphere at the ground was electric, with fans of all ages uniting behind this vital cause. Many shared their own stories of how prostate cancer had touched their lives or the lives of loved ones, creating a powerful sense of community and shared purpose.
 

Although it was a shame we couldn’t get the result on the pitch, I couldn't be prouder to be an Altrincham fan. The club has stood by me throughout my prostate cancer journey, and on Non-League Day, they once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to making a difference. 

Throughout March, the local NHS team have been focusing on prostate cancer awareness too and were about to join us on the day. Their support exemplifies the very best of our community spirit and shows how football clubs can be forces for good beyond the pitch. 

The stark reality is that we lose a father, brother, partner, or friend to prostate cancer every 45 minutes. But together, with the continued support of clubs like Altrincham FC, we can change this devastating statistic.
 
To everyone who participated, donated, or simply helped spread awareness on Non-League Day – thank you. Your contributions will help Prostate Cancer UK continue their vital work, and together, we are one step closer to relegating prostate cancer forever.
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