The family of Tom Walker, a 13-year-old from Monmouth whose life was heartbreakingly ended just a day after a leukaemia diagnosis, have turned their grief into an inspiring force for good. In the wake of Tom’s untimely passing in 2018, his relatives and friends rallied together, launching a remarkable fundraising effort in his honour that continues to have a profound impact on cancer research and the local community.
Tom was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, an aggressive blood cancer, in June 2018. The despairing news arrived with little warning, as his mother Debbie Walker recalls the illness “crept up on him.” Within only 24 hours of his diagnosis, Tom tragically died following complications from a necessary operation at the onset of his treatment. Debbie poignantly remarked that Tom was a boy who cherished fairness above all else, saying, “It was never a fair fight – and that is what would have annoyed Tom the most.”
Before his illness, Tom attended Monmouth School for Boys and had already shown himself to be both caring and proactive, participating in a charity hike across the Brecon Beacons and raising £700 for Cancer Research Wales only weeks before his diagnosis. Dr Andrew Daniel, the headmaster of the school, described Tom as a much-loved pupil whose loss was a “terrible shock” for everyone. He was remembered for his love of rowing, his skills as a drummer, and his participation in school musical performances, including a memorable event at St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Despite their devastating loss, Tom’s family channelled their sorrow into positive action. In early 2019, Tom’s elder sister, Katie, then serving as deputy head girl at Monmouth School for Girls, spearheaded the inaugural “Swim for Tom” fundraising swimathon. Supported by both Monmouth schools and Cancer Research Wales, the event aimed to cover the distance of the River Wye. The community exceeded all expectations, with over 600 swimmers completing 988 kilometres – more than doubling their target – and raising over £25,000 for Tom’s Fund.
The momentum has not waned. “Swim for Tom” became an annual tradition, returning in January 2020 and bringing together over 500 participants who raised a further £15,000. The event has attracted broad support, uniting families, classmates, and local residents in memory of Tom and in pursuit of better outcomes for those diagnosed with cancer.
The fund’s achievements have been tangible and far-reaching. Proceeds from the first events were used to finance a PhD research post at Cardiff University, filled by Theo Morin, whose work on engineering T-cells for the treatment of acute myeloid leukaemia has contributed crucial knowledge in the field. By 2024, funding from Tom’s legacy had not only advanced leukaemia research but also contributed to significant glioblastoma tumour projects, demonstrating a lasting impact beyond Tom’s immediate community.
This year, the “Swim for Tom” event is set to return on 29 June at the Monmouth School Sports Centre. Organisers anticipate 480 swimmers challenging themselves to collectively swim 587 kilometres – the equivalent of the distance between Monmouth and Edinburgh. As part of the tradition, proceeds from the entry fee and the on-site café and raffle will once more support Cancer Research Wales via Tom’s Fund.
Participants can choose from a variety of swimming speeds, and those less inclined to get in the pool are encouraged to volunteer as lane counters. A registration fee of £10 goes directly towards cancer research efforts, continuing the cycle of support and scientific discovery.
Through their steadfast commitment to fundraising and community action, Tom’s family have created a vibrant legacy that not only commemorates Tom’s life but also offers hope to families facing similar battles. The initiative invites others to come together, take part, and contribute to an ongoing journey of compassion, resilience, and progress in cancer research.