Two men will host a charity football match in aid of their friend after he received heart-breaking news – aiming to support his children for their futures.
Sam Gilbert was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in April 2024 and has since endured 29 rounds of chemotherapy.
In October, he was hospitalised for a blocked bile duct, where five metal stents were fitted into his liver.
Just 10 days later, he developed problems swallowing and speaking, and a number of X-Rays, MRI and CT scans revealed that the cancer had spread to his lower brain and neck.
Recently, Sam was told by his oncologist at St George’s in Tooting that his cancer is now at a stage where treatment is about management rather than cure.
To celebrate Sam and support his children, Brad Rogers and Dave Burnham will host a charity match at Burnham football club on December 5.
Brad said: "I’ve been lucky enough to call Sam my mate for over 30 years – a friendship that began on the football pitch and grew into something far deeper.
"He’s faced every challenge head-on, never complaining, just quietly getting on with it – exactly as anyone who knows Sam would expect.
"We first thought about arranging a memorial match – but thankfully, we’ll be blessed with Sam and his family’s presence on the day.
"This event will not only be a celebration of his life and his incredible spirit but also a way to raise funds to support his children’s futures – something that means everything to him."
Sam's children, Leo, 13, and Amber, 10, will both attend the match next month, with gates opening at 6.30pm and the match expected to start at 7.30pm.
Food, refreshments and a licenced bar will be available.
Leo is the captain of Maldon and Tiptree under 13s EJA team, and also enjoys playing golf.
Amber is a budding horse rider and 60m track star, earning the district champion title for the past two years.
Speaking to the Standard about the event, Sam said: "Brad and Dave have been friends of mine for over 30 years and in that time I've learned what great men they've become.
"They've offered unwavering support through my illness, arranged a first game for my treatment and expenses a year ago and come together to push this one – which might be my last chance to see some people.
"I love them like brothers and look forward to a brilliant night of football that hopefully the community can get behind.
"Everyone is welcome to attend!"
Brad added: "Sam is, without question, one of Burnham’s most decorated youth players – a natural leader and winner in the junior ranks and even briefly shone in the first team with a debut goal and some dazzling performances before heading off to university.
"But beyond the football, he’s been a role model, a true gent, and a man whose strength in adversity has inspired everyone around him.
"Let’s fill the ground, raise lots of money, and show Sam and his family just how much love, respect, and gratitude we have for him.
"Let’s give him the celebration he truly deserves – in the town he’s always held so close to his heart."
So far, just under £2,000 has been raised via an online fundraising page set up by Brad and Dave.
For more information, and to donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/sam-gilbert
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