Man from Altrincham with cancer adds to his incredible fundraising efforts

A man from Altrincham who is living with incurable cancer has added the Greater Manchester ‘Football March’ to his list of impressive fundraising efforts. 

Tony Collier was diagnosed with stage four advanced prostate cancer in 2017 and was told he may only have two years to live. 

However, five years on his cancer is stable and his passion for exercise sees ghim him running 5k everyday to help raise money for charity. 

Tony will now join hundreds of football fans on the Greater Manchester ‘Football March’, which start at Altrincham FC and finish at the home of Manchester City on 22 September.

It’s one of four walking marathons taking place across the country to help raise money for prostate cancer UK, finishing in the capital three days later.

Tony explained the importance of charity events such as the ‘Football March’ saying: “Fundraising events like this are important because it will help develop new drugs that will buy me more time to spend with my grandkids when my current treatment stops working.” 

The 65 year old has previously raised around £40,000 for prostate cancer UK and took part in a similar event last year known as ‘Jeff Stelling’s March for Men’. 

Tony said: “It’s 26 miles, it’s quite a challenge but it tends to go at a very steady pace (3mph).

“There’s plenty of breaks where you can get tea, coffee, and lunch. It’s superbly guided by the organisers, keeping everyone safe with road crossings, it’s very well organised. 

“People should do their best to get some practice walks in beforehand but thankfully it’s a relatively slow pace and there’s no major hills to climb.

“Wherever it ends there’s usually hot food provided. All told, it should be a really good day!” 

After attending his first game at Altrincham in 1966, football has always been a massive part of Tony’s life. 

However, recently the sport has meant much more to him.

He said: “Football is a means of escapism to get away from the day-to-day horrors of living with incurable cancer.

 “I also get to meet people at the ground (Altrincham FC), and we get on well. You can grab a beer beforehand which is a nice way to relax as well.” 

Anyone wishing to join Tony on the walk to help beat prostate cancer can sign up here.

A minimum target of £350 is recommended, however, there are prizes to be won for those who go above and beyond. 

Additionally, Tony is currently undergoing a yearlong fundraiser, running 5k every day. If you wish to donate to his just giving you can do so by clicking the link here.