URGENT UPDATE: A local mum, Rebecca Combellack, is transforming her life-changing cancer diagnosis into a powerful campaign for awareness and support, prompting an extraordinary reunion of ice hockey legends in Nottingham. Diagnosed with breast cancer in May, the 39-year-old has undergone intense treatment and is now rallying her community to raise funds and awareness for those affected by the disease.
Rebecca, alongside her husband Richard, has already raised an impressive £37,000 for charities Coppafeel! and BreastCancerNow. Their fundraising efforts include Rebecca walking 100 miles throughout November and Richard shaving his head in solidarity. However, their most significant event is set for February 8, 2024, at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, where they aim to sell 2,000 tickets for a charity ice hockey game featuring former Nottingham Panthers players.
The couple’s journey has been profoundly impacted by the harsh realities of breast cancer. Rebecca, a mother of two, has been thrust into early menopause due to hormone-blocking treatments, and they are now unable to have more children. “We decided to go on a bit of a mission and generate awareness,” Richard stated, emphasizing the need for better education on the disease’s effects.
Rebecca adds, “We’ve encountered so many people under 40 who’ve been diagnosed. It’s frightening how many are suffering.” They are advocating for improved training for medical professionals, citing instances where Rebecca was turned away when voicing concerns about a lump. “We should be sent for a scan, even if the chances are slim. It’s things like that which could save lives,” she said.
The upcoming charity game is set to feature former Nottingham Panthers David Clarke and Marc Leavers, along with ex-Sheffield Steeler Ben Bliss, who will likely face a mixed reception from fans. The event will also include a raffle and a pop-up shop, further engaging the local community.
Rebecca’s resilience is driven by her two children, Matthew, 12, and Sienna, 9. “The kids have been such a huge help,” she noted, crediting them for their support throughout this challenging time. Richard expressed immense pride in Rebecca’s determination, stating, “What she’s doing in spite of all of this is incredible.”
This inspiring story is not just about one family’s battle; it’s a rallying cry for collective action against breast cancer. You can support Rebecca and Richard’s fight by attending the charity hockey game at the Motorpoint Arena on February 8, with the puck drop at 3:30 PM. Tickets are available on Eventbrite, and donations can still be made to their ongoing fundraiser.
Richard expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received, particularly from the estate agent industry. “The way they have banded together is nothing short of remarkable,” he said. The couple is eagerly looking forward to the event, which promises to be a day filled with community spirit and hope.
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