#stephensstory: How one young man touched our hearts & raised millions

In my job with SCVO and in the minuscule contribution I make as a campaigner (of sorts) I reckon I am pretty privileged. I get to see the third sector and voluntary action in all their glory. You see the very best in the people you meet and work with – individuals and organisations who strive to make our lives better no matter what the cost. They give up money, time, love and energy for causes and people. And like Stephen, many of them do this despite facing incredible and heart-breaking challenges of their own. Stephen has so clearly left a legacy that has touched and spurred on many of us who work in the third sector. From following his story on Facebook, Stephen has very tangibly helped people affected by cancer. He has touched us in ways he could never have imagined. Let’s not forget that his actions and his story have raised over £3 million pounds for the Teenage Cancer Trust. His legacy will live on for future generations, helping young people with cancer as they themselves face the fear and obstacles which Stephen himself must have faced. I often shed tears at home (and at my desk) as I followed Stephen’s journey. Stephen touched my life at a time when things were not fantastic. I can bet that for many people, his fundraising work and the different stages of his battle with cancer have hit us where it counts. He has connected with us emotionally. He has caused many of us to look at our own lives and to wonder what difference we ourselves are making in the short time we inhabit this planet. That has to be why so many of us donated to his cause. Stephen’s Story will continue to resonate for years to come. Words such as “brave” and “inspirational” are used too casually in our society but Stephen Sutton was profoundly brave and truly inspirational.