Derby County defender Eiran Cashin plans to shave his head and try the Three Peaks challenge to raise money for one of his best friends, who has been diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia.
Lewis Johnson, who recently turned 25, is presently receiving treatment after being admitted to the hospital with suspected low iron levels.
He is currently wheelchair-bound and unable to collaborate with Cashin in raising awareness for Lewis, who is scheduled to endure intensive treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
A Go Fund Me page has been put up, and donations have so far totalled £8,215 with an aim of £10,000. Taking to Twitter, Cashin, now known as X, wrote: “Unfortunately, one of my best friends, Lewis, was just admitted to the hospital with suspected low iron levels.
“He was recently diagnosed with a rare sort of leukemia cancer and is fighting it as we speak. My friends and I plan to shave our hair in support.
“In addition to completing the three peak challenge and many other activities to show our support and generate funds for him and his family during this difficult time.
“I’ll leave a link below so you can learn more about Lewis and what we’re doing to help. Any donation, sharing, or love and support for him and his family at this difficult time will be greatly appreciated!! “Thank you for reading.”
Derby’s Cashin and friends will shave their heads next month before attempting the Three Peaks Challenge in March of next year. Other events are planned to support Lewis, who is now unable to shower, dress, or walk unaided.
According to the Go Fund Me page, “Our best mate Lewis, just turned 25, has been diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).”
“ALL is an uncommon type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. It develops and spreads rapidly, necessitating an early diagnosis and fast treatment.
“As of this week, Lewis is undergoing rigorous chemotherapy and other treatments to actively tackle this uncommon blood malignancy.
“Lewis is wheelchair-bound due to blood cancer that has spread across his spine, sternum, and ribcage, preventing him from showering, dressing, or walking alone.
“Lewis has had to put his entire life on hold while undergoing treatment, with his mother Kahli and long-term partner Emily serving as his only permanent visitors while he is isolated in hospital for at least the next five weeks.”
“Lewis is currently unable to work (possibly for the next two years), creating unnecessary financial burden while therapy begins. Specialists recommend six months of intensive treatment followed by an additional 18 months of health maintenance and chemotherapy, which may include a bone marrow transplant.
“While the prognosis is manageable, there is always uncertainty with cancer, particularly given ALL’s high relapse rate.
“We are hoping to raise as much money as possible for Lewis in order to alleviate any financial stress at this difficult time. This will aid him while he is out of work for the foreseeable future, as the bills will not cease.
“On October 5th, as a group, we will shave our hair and beards while Lewis struggles on. We also plan to finish the Three Peaks Challenge around March 2025. (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon) in 24 hours.
“Other events will also follow that you are more than welcome to join, and help Lewis with this long and tough journey ahead.”