Hi All

I want to talk to you about my friend Chris Farley, whom I sing with as part of Brighton Gay Mens Chorus. I then want to ask you for your help.

Chris has a brain tumour. It’s big and it’s growing. The doctors have told him a couple of weeks back he has to have it removed. His operation is booked for Weds 28th November and will involve cutting a hole in the side of his skull (about the size of the mouth of a tea mug).

Hopefully they can remove it all first go, but he has been told he may end up in a vegetative state or even die. Even if it goes well, the recovery period is likely to take several months.

Meanwhile, he cannot work or earn money in the usual way and has had to step down from his job as manager of Shakeaways on Bond St. He has therefore been consulting with numerous organisations to ask for financial support. He has tried a number of charities on top of the statutory channels.

But it transpires there are very limited benefits available to him at such short notice.

As a result the drop in income will be significant, likely to be several hundred pounds short on his monthly outgoings including his rent.

He’s understandably feeling really stressed out and also really let down by the lack of resources.

I’ve been in touch with the trustees of Brighton Gay Mens Chorus and they have kindly been able to offer some support. This has meant a huge amount to him and certainly lifted his spirits temporarily.

However he is going to need a lot more to get him through the next few months. I’m going to be thinking of some initiatives to try and help him, including asking for donations. I have already spoken to a few people both in the choir and in the community whom have kindly offered to help. If you can find it in you to participate in some way then I know that would mean a huge amount to him.

My personal mission is that I want him to feel able to focus on being fit and ready for the operation rather than worrying himself to death over his financial situation.

Meanwhile, if you have any ideas on how you might be able to help then please do let me know.

Many thanks for taking the time to read this.

All the best

Adam x