Skip to main content

Team Olly

1259. Olly McKenna

Olly McKenna, aged 12, has fundraised over £80,0000 to support pre-teens in Newcastle through cancer treatment.

While undergoing treatment for a brain tumour, Olly set up ‘Team Olly’, inspiring friends and family to fundraise for better facilities at ‘Newcastle Great North Children Hospital’ and ‘Charlie Bear for Cancer Care Fund’. After completing treatment in April 2018, Olly ran the Junior Great North Run while still in recovery, inspiring over 100 other runners to support his cause. Olly’s efforts have ensured that children aged nine to thirteen will be able to live a better life whilst undergoing treatment for cancer.   

In a personal letter to Olly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:

“I know you do this with no thought of praise or reward, but allow me to offer my own recognition of how you are proving that children with cancer can have fun and how you are inspiring others with your unstoppable fundraising feats.” 

Olly said:

“I am really excited to hear of the Prime Minister’s recognition via this award for my tireless efforts to ensure equality of facilities for all children undergoing cancer treatment.”

The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community.

Volunteer now

Search winners