Thousands raised for Mansfield teen following devastating cancer diagnosis
Thousands of pounds have been raised for 17-year-old Ezmay Usher, who has been diagnosed with cancer – as Ezmay documents her experience in a Facebook blog.
In late November 2024, Ezmay was rushed to the hospital due to severe pain.
She was diagnosed with muscle cancer in her pelvis, which has since spread to her lungs.
Ezmay now faces a long and challenging battle against the disease.
In the weeks that followed her diagnosis, her community rallied together to offer support.
A GoFundMe page was launched by her boss and long-time friend, James Perry, at Patchills Pantry.
Ezmay is a chef apprentice at Patchills, playing a key role in its success as a community-centred catering service.
Over £13,000 has been raised so far of the fundraising page’s £15,000 target.
Readers can see more at: www.gofundme.com/f/ezmays-cancer-journey.
On the fundraising page, James said: “We want to try and raise enough money to help Ezmay, her mum and family, to make lasting memories for them all at these incredibly difficult times.”
He said that Ezmay has a bright future ahead of her, as she has expressed her aspirations of opening her own restaurant numerous times.
James added: “Ezmay, you have the power, strength and love that will bring you through this and back by our sides on your destined journey.
“We have your back and we love you unconditionally.”
Ezmay has also created a Facebook page to document her fight against cancer, titled ‘Ezmay’s Journey’, with readers able to follow her blog at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570140635141.
Over the weekend, a fundraising event for Ezmay was organised by The Sherwood Pub in Rainworth, where supporters raised over £4,000 for the teen and her family.
The event featured a charity football match between Sherwood Football Club and the Rainworth Pythons Men's team on Saturday, January 4, followed by a raffle and various fundraising activities throughout the afternoon at the pub on Kirklington Road.
Pub landlords Laura and Steve Carr thanked the community for coming together and supporting Ezmay and her family during this difficult time.
Laura said: “Ezmay, you are an absolute inspiration. You have an army of supporters with you on this journey.”
Speaking on the event, Ezmay said: “What an amazing day. Thank you each and every one of you for everything. You’re all amazing people.”