A COURAGEOUS man given one year to live has been recognised for his fundraising work, at an event in York.
Cain North was awarded the title of Charity Fundraiser of the Year at this year’s York Community Pride Awards.
Diagnosed with stage four malignant glioblastoma, the personal trainer said he's devoted his time to helping others with brain tumours by raising funds for the York-based children’s charity OSCAR’s.
Once his own radiotherapy ended in the autumn of 2023, Cain began work on helping others with brain tumours through the paediatric brain tumour charity.
Of his own health, Cain said: “Definitely getting a lot better now.
"I had my last scan and I’m waiting to hear the results of that now, hopefully within the next four to six weeks, and we’ll go from there.
“Each day’s a bit of a blessing.
"I thought I'd been to my last awards ceremony.
“I took a bit of time off a month ago but I’m getting back into things now, and realising the beauty of life, helping others - in my work as a personal trainer I love doing that anyway – and seeing others strive that helps me be like them as well.
“This community’s everything to me, my gym is very community based, they keep me going, I keep them going, and the city of York – I’m a home lad, and very much York through-and-through.”
So far, Cain has raised over £16,000 for the cause in fundraising events which have included a six kilometre ‘walk to hope’, a ‘tough mudder’ run, charity games of football and rugby , plus half and full marathons.
Prior to Thursday night’s ceremony (September 5), Cain said he would work with OSCAR’s for as long as he possibly could, making the most of the precious time he has.
He said: “I’m only one person but together we can make a difference.
“We are much stronger and better all together.”
OSCAR’s charity manager said that Cain’s inspirational work had found them new volunteers and businesses and has made a huge difference to children with brain tumours.
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