One year on: Tombides foundation launches

  • by Staff Writer
  • Thursday, 26th February 2015

A Foundation created in memory of former Hammer Dylan Tombides is being launched at this weekend's Premier League clash with Crystal Palace.

The DT38 Foundation has been set up to raise awareness and provide support for those suffering from testicular cancer, the disease which cost the young striker his life in 2014.

Dylan had barely celebrated his 20th birthday when, in April of last year, he died having failed to respond to specialist treatement. Prior to his passing he had bravely fought the disease for three years, having first found a lump in his testicle in April 2011.

Mum Tracy, writing on the Foundation's website, recalls the devastating loss of her eldest son. "On 18 April 2014, Dylan’s organs failed and we said goodbye to our beloved son and brother," she said.

"If we had known about testicular cancer and what we needed to do to catch it early, we would have insisted on an ultra sound when we went to the GP. It breaks our heart to think that this could have been prevented.

"Dylan was robbed of a future that he dreamed of as a young boy. It robbed Taylor of a brother and it robbed my husband and I of watching our beautiful son grow and fulfil his dreams.

"Please do not let this happen to your son, brother, friend or father. If you have a concern with your testicles please see a doctor straight away and insist on an ultrasound – it may just save your life."

The Foundation is being launched this Saturday at the Boleyn Ground when West Ham take on Palace. It was at last season's corresponding fixture that Dylan's father Jim and brother Taylor laid his cherished #38 shirt in the centre circle ahead of the game.

In addition, West Ham fans are being invited to remember Dylan with a minute's applause in the 38th minute of the match. The club will be screening a picture of Dylan on the big screens as a reminder to supporters.


Dylan Remembered
Former colleagues of Dylan's recall his fighting spirit.



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