Geoff Thomas MBE Celebrated for Monumental, Multi-Million Pound Impact as Cure Leukaemia Patron
On what is the 23rd anniversary of his diagnosis with leukaemia, Cure Leukaemia pays tribute to the extraordinary, life-changing dedication of its long-standing patron, former England international footballer Geoff Thomas MBE.
Over a span of more than fifteen years as a tireless patron, Geoff has transformed his own survival story into a multi-million-pound fundraising legacy, fundamentally reshaping blood cancer clinical trials and patient care globally.
Following his retirement from professional football, Geoff was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia in 2003 and given just three months to live. After undergoing a lifesaving stem cell transplant from his sister, Kay, under the care of Cure Leukaemia co-founder Professor Charlie Craddock CBE, Geoff entered remission in 2005. Since then, he has been dedicated to giving back, personally spearheading a fundraising total that has surpassed £10 million for Cure Leukaemia.
Central to this phenomenal achievement was Geoff’s pivotal role in establishing The Tour 21, Cure Leukaemia’s flagship annual cycling event. Having completed the full Tour de France route multiple times himself, along with riding all three Grand Tours, The Tour de France, The Giro D’Italia and La Vuelta in 2017, Geoff inspired a movement of amateur cyclists to tackle all 21 stages of the world’s most famous cycling race one week ahead of the professionals.
Geoff Thomas MBE, Cure Leukaemia Patron, reflected on the journey:
“When I was first diagnosed, I knew firsthand the immense fear and uncertainty that comes with a blood cancer diagnosis. I am incredibly proud to have been able to make a tangible difference to individuals and families who find themselves walking that exact same path. To see how many people have been inspired to take on their own challenges, hop on a bike, and join this fight has been deeply moving. Knowing that our collective efforts are actively changing outcomes for patients is the greatest reward I could have ever asked for. I’d also like to acknowledge Professor Craddock and what an inspiration Charlie has been. Such a wonderful caring man who’s drive, dedication and determination was and still is my drive to help make a difference.”
The immense fundraising success driven by Geoff has allowed Cure Leukaemia to consistently expand its support for the national Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP) network which has delivered globally impacting clinical trials. This vital network funds specialist research nurses and clinical roles across the UK, accelerating the setup and delivery of pioneering, life-saving clinical trials, and offering patients access to treatments not yet available through standard care.
James McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Cure Leukaemia, commented:
“Cure Leukaemia has so much to thank Geoff for. His unwavering support and sheer determination over the years as a patron have been nothing short of inspirational. By turning his own diagnosis into a catalyst for hope, Geoff’s vision for The Tour 21 has allowed us to grow exponentially – In 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic we were an hour away from going bust, but thankfully we managed to get the Tour 21 on that year, raising over £1million. His fundraising legacy means we can continue to fund even more research nurses and expand vital clinical trials. Ultimately, Geoff has directly ensured that we can support more blood cancer patients globally, giving families the most precious gift of all: time.”
Professor Charlie Craddock CBE, who treated Geoff and co-founded the charity, added:
“When Geoff was diagnosed, the outlook was bleak, but his bravery during treatment was a testament to his character. To see him take that survival and convert it into decades of relentless advocacy is profoundly moving. The millions Geoff has helped raise have had a profound impact on clinical development, accelerating the arrival of next-generation therapies from the lab straight to the bedside. He hasn’t just raised money; he has systematically helped build the infrastructure that is saving lives today and will continue to save blood cancer patients well into the future.”
As Cure Leukaemia looks toward future clinical trials and further global expansion, Geoff Thomas’ legacy stands as a shining example of how one individual’s triumph over adversity can ignite a movement that alters the course of medicine for thousands.
Everyone at Cure Leukaemia wishes to extend a profound, heartfelt thank you to Geoff for his monumental effort, sacrifices, and decades of tireless work. While Geoff is now officially stepping away from riding in any future tours, his dedication to the cause remains and supporting blood cancer patients will forever remain close to his heart.
