Alex climbs for his Grandad

11-year-old Alex Hughes loved and adored his Granddad Matt Barbour, who sadly died from mesothelioma in February 2011 without hearing the wonderful news that Alex had gained a place at Grammar School.

‘He would have been so proud of me,” said Alex. As part of his induction at his new school, Alex was given a summer challenge, including raising money for charity. Alex chose the JHMRF in memory of his Granddad, and alongside his Dad decided to climb Mount Snowdon on 11 August 2012.  Said Alex, “My Granddad was very special to me and I miss him very much. I want to not only raise money in his memory but to raise awareness of this terrible disease and to help others.”

When Alex returned to school at the end of August he presented a PowerPoint to his peers and teachers about mesothelioma and the dangers of asbestos.

The weather was kind and Alex succeeded in climbing to the summit of Snowdon – WELL DONE ALEX!! He proudly wore his June Hancock Fund T-shirt all the way. Alex has raised nearly £700 for mesothelioma research – a huge thanks to him and his family and supporters. “I am very proud and I know my Granddad Matt Barbour would be too” said Alex.  We are proud of you too.