On 4th January 2025, just three days before Clarke’s first birthday, his world changed forever. Clarke was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), something no family ever imagines hearing. On his birthday, instead of celebrating, his parents were holding his hand in intensive care after he suffered a seizure. Since then, Clarke spent almost 6 gruelling months in hospital, filled with chemotherapy, blood and platelet transfusions, painful side effects, infections, and isolation rooms. His mum Kegan explains: “He’s faced everything with a strength that’s hard to put into words. We are so incredibly proud of him.” “Through all of this, Candlelighters have been by our side. They’ve provided us with accommodation close to the hospital, so we could stay near Clarke. They’ve supported our wellbeing with therapy and emotional support when things felt overwhelming. They’ve brought joy to the ward, with activities that help children still be children, even in the darkest times.” “We’ve set up Team Clarkey Boy to raise money for Candlelighters, to give back to the people who have held us up when we could barely stand.” Candlelighters Teams are fundraising groups made up of family, friends and local communities all with a common goal, to raise funds, awareness and support. We have been blown away by everything Team Clarkey Boy have achieved so far… The family have a close connection to Wakefield Trinity Rugby League Club, where Clarke’s grandad Daryl, is Head Coach. In June, the club held a fundraiser for Candlelighters during their Super League contest with Leigh Leopards. And during Pink It Up Week, Team Clarkey Boy organised a competition on their local high street, where shops will turn their window displays pink, and raise money for Candlelighters. So far, Team Clarkey Boy has raised an incredible £16,600. We can’t wait to hear what they do next … Take a look here if you would be interested in forming your own Fundraising Team: Form a Fundraising Team | Support children with cancer 
In a very special family moment, ahead of kick off, the two teams were led out by Daryl and Kegan, with a smiling Clarke wearing a superhero cape, and his sister Reeva. 
The players wore special shirts, with the ‘Team Clarkey Boy’ logo on, for the match, which will be auctioned off to raise money for Candlelighters, while bucket collections took place.
