Tributes are flowing in for a cherished teenager who tragically passed away just a day after being diagnosed with leukaemia, having previously been misdiagnosed with ‘growing pains’. Harley Andrews, 16, visited his GP recently, complaining of feeling unwell, but he and his mother, Gemma, were dismissed with a diagnosis of either a virus or growing pains, as disclosed by a family friend.
Harley, an enthusiastic football and rugby player from Leigh in Greater Manchester, showed no further symptoms until noticing blood in his urine over the weekend. Concerned, his father and stepmother rushed him to Royal Bolton Hospital on Saturday, where he was informed of having an ‘aggressive form’ of blood cancer. Sadly, he passed away early the following day.
Medical tests revealed that Harley had stage four leukaemia, leading to internal bleeding in his brain and other organs. The teenager tragically succumbed to the illness shortly after receiving the diagnosis.
A fundraiser initiated by Kaylee Jackson, a close family friend and neighbor of Harley’s mother, has raised over £8,000 to assist with expenses. Describing Harley as a bright and compassionate individual who touched the lives of many, the fundraiser aims to alleviate financial burdens for the grieving family during this difficult time.
Harley, who was well-liked by his peers, played amateur football for Leigh Town before joining Astley and Tyldesley FC, where he played a significant role in the team’s league and cup victories.
Several fundraisers have been set up to honor Harley’s memory and support his family during their time of grief. Local sports clubs, including Astley & Tyldesley FC and Leigh East Rugby League team, have expressed their sorrow over the loss of Harley, remembering him fondly as a dedicated and beloved member of their community.
To contribute to the fundraisers set up in memory of Harley, donations can be made by visiting the following links: [Link 1] and [Link 2].