Tom Bowdidge Foundation
748. Nikki Bowdidge
749. Richard Bowdidge
Nikki and Richard Bowdidge have continued the work of their son Tom, who raised over £170,000 to support other young people after being diagnosed with sarcoma in 2012.
Parents Nikki and Richard founded the Tom Bowdidge Foundation to continue Tom’s inspiring legacy. The combined fundraising of Tom, Nikki and Richard has now raised almost half a million pounds to support to young people living with cancer, as well as to carry out research into cures for teenage cancers.
In a personal letter to Nikki and Richard, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Together, through the Tom Bowdidge Foundation, you are providing invaluable physical and emotional support to young people living with cancer, as well as supporting their family members. It is an extraordinary way to honour the memory of your son Tom, and you should be very proud of what you have achieved.”
Nikki and Richard’s local Member of Parliament, Will Quince MP, said:
“I have known Nikki and Richard for several years now and have found the fundraising and work they have done in Tom’s name to be truly inspirational. Having experienced such a terrible personal tragedy, Nikki and Richard have created the most incredible legacy for Tom which will benefit so many young people sadly living with cancer. Their recognition via a Prime Minister’s Points of Light Award is thoroughly well deserved.”
Nikki and Richard said:
“It is a great honour to receive the Points of Light Award on behalf of the Tom Bowdidge Foundation. Without the support of the Foundation’s trustees, donors and volunteers we would not have been able to fulfil Tom’s vision. Throughout his illness, Tom wanted to set up a charity that would support teenagers and young people with cancer. He knew there was much work to be done and this is what forms the basis of the charity today. Whether it be the need to fund a research project, provide dedicated and age appropriate hospital facilities or to make an individual grant that will help a family or young cancer sufferer, our work will never stop. Receiving this award from the Prime Minister is confirmation that we are making a difference to the lives of teenagers and young people with cancer.”