A COMMUNITY stalwart has been ‘blown away’ by the support he received after being diagnosed with lung cancer.
Andy Shaw, from Haslingden, was diagnosed last week after previously suffering from what was thought to be muscle injuries for around eight months.
One month ago he noticed a tumour on his pelvis before having a diagnosis of lung cancer confirmed.
A fundraising group called Andy’s Angels has now set up to try and raise money to support him and his family.
Mr Shaw, 45, said: “The support has blown me away to be fair, it’s beyond my wildest dreams, it’s just phenomenal.
“It’s been tough, once you get told these things, it takes time to settle in. To doctors are just working on the battle plan.
“But the support I’ve got from friends and different people, it just gives me that lift to keep going.”
Mr Shaw's wife Sally runs Relish caterers in Helmshore Road, and the couple have a 12-year-old son, Harry.
He used to work in his ‘dream job’ as the garage cafe manager at Tor View Community Special School.
Mr Shaw is also the manager of Rossendale Valley Lions under 13 football team.
He said: “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done. They’re one of the things that keep me going
“They’ve got a game on Saturday and I’m determined to get there.”
A Justgiving page has been set up with a £2,000 target to help support Mr Shaw and his family, which has already reached £935.
His sister, Nicola Bezer, 48, said: “The day before he found out he was in the gym leg pressing 80kg, he thought it was a muscle problem so he was trying to build strength.
“We cannot believe how well people have reacted and donated.”
St Mary's Chambers in Rossendale has been made available for the family to hold a fundraising event on Sunday, May 28.
To donate visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/nicola-bezer.
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