£50k cancer appeal for dad

An Aberdeen family is making a desperate appeal to help give a devoted father-of-three a chance to keep fighting cancer.

Darren Yates, 38, was diagnosed with metastatic germ cell cancer on New Year’s Eve last year.

After months of gruelling treatment, Darren received the devastating news that there were no further treatment options available for him on the NHS.

But Darren and his loved ones have decided to keep fighting.

His sister Holly has launched a GoFundMe appeal in the hope of raising enough money to pay for specialist treatment in Germany.

The treatment, along with travel, accommodation and an extended stay abroad, is expected to cost around £50,000.

Holly said: “We have been told there is nothing more they can offer. Hearing those words has been devastating for all of us.

“We spoke to a doctor in London, who advised us to go for this treatment in Germany, but it’s far too expensive for us to afford on our own.”

She added that while there were no guarantees, the family feel they have to take a chance on treatment.

Darren, who works as a car salesman, lives with his partner Natalie and is dad to Eva, 11, and eight-year-old twins Ollie and Harrison.

Describing her brother, Holly said: “He is not only an incredible brother, son and partner but most importantly, he is a devoted father to three beautiful children who need their dad.

“Since his diagnosis, he has faced every challenge with courage and determination, supported by the love of his family and friends.”

Darren is also one of five siblings, with two sisters and two brothers, who have rallied around him during his cancer battle.

The family say every donation will go towards funding Darren’s treatment, along with the cost of travelling to and staying in Germany while he receives care.

Holly added: “This has been the hardest journey our family has ever faced, but we refuse to give up while there is still hope.

“We want to do everything we can to give Darren the chance to spend more precious time with his children and the people who love him.”

To donate to Holly’s fundraiser, visit her GoFundMe page.

FAMILY MAN: Darren Yates, of Aberdeen, with his children Eva, Ollie and Harrison.