Keanu’s Story

This is the story of James and Hannah Black and their son, Keanu, who, against all odds, overcame a life-altering diagnosis and are now dedicating their lives to helping others in similar battles.

In early 2020, Keanu Black was a 12-year-old boy living out his dream. Just days after signing a two-year contract with the Southampton Football Academy, Keanu received devastating news that would shatter any child’s world. He was diagnosed with leukaemia, a form of blood cancer that threatened not only his football career but his life.

The diagnosis came like a bolt from the blue, just two days after Keanu had taken a significant step toward his future in football. His dreams were suddenly placed on hold as he embarked on a gruelling journey of treatment, spending the next eight months in a hospital. During this time, Keanu underwent four rounds of chemotherapy, endured over 60 blood and platelet transfusions, and faced the harsh realities of battling cancer. But Keanu’s spirit remained unbroken.

Thanks to the efforts of the medical staff at the Southampton Children’s Ward and the unwavering support of his family, Keanu made an incredible recovery. Now 16 years old, Keanu is not just a survivor—he’s a fighter who has returned to the football field with renewed determination. He currently plays for Aldershot’s U18 team and has recently completed his studies at The Mountbatten School.

Keanu’s journey profoundly impacted his parents, Hannah and James Black, the Director of CSW Cladding. Deeply moved by the care and treatment their son received, James and Hannah have pledged to give back in a meaningful way. As a founding member of Club 10 they have committed to donating £10,000 annually for the next five years to support The ATICUS Network.

“We will be forever grateful to the incredible staff at the Southampton Children’s Ward that treated Keanu,” James said.