02-07-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Guardian
Rhydian Jones to play tennis for 24 hours for charity
Rhydian Jones, from Llandybie, Carmarthenshire, will take on 24 hours of non-stop tennis followed by the Cardiff Half Marathon.
He hopes to raise £1,200 for the Sir Gareth Edwards Cancer Charity, which supported his wife Angharad throughout her cancer treatment.
In 2023, five months after their wedding, the couple received the devastating news that Angharad had Hodgkin's lymphoma.
The charity provided them with grants and personal support during this difficult time and Angharad is now in remission.
They also showed their support by sending pyjamas for their young daughter Mabli.
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Rhydian is determined to give back to ensure other families receive the same care and kindness.
Mr Jones said: "In 2023, just five months after our incredible wedding, we were dealt the most devastating news — Angharad had cancer.
"A word that brings fear and uncertainty.
"But today, I am beyond grateful to say: Angharad is one year in remission from Hodgkin's lymphoma."
In an emotional message on his JustGiving page, Mr Jones expressed his gratitude to the Sir Gareth Edwards Cancer Charity for their support during Angharad's treatment.
He said: "The Sir Gareth Edwards Cancer Charity was one of the first charities to offer us support while Angharad was receiving treatment.
"Eirlys, in particular, gave a personal touch when checking in on Angharad, and made sure she and our little girl, Mabli, were okay."
Mr Jones will start his gruelling challenge at Llandybie Tennis Courts, where he will play tennis continuously for 24 hours starting at 12pm on August 9.
He will then tackle the Cardiff Half Marathon on October 5.
Mr Jones admitted that the challenge will be "physically and mentally demanding" but said he is "genuinely excited" to take it on.
He said: "As most of you know, I'm not much of a runner, but I know the pain I'll face is nothing compared to what Angharad and other cancer patients have to endure.
"Every donation, no matter how small, helps provide support to individuals and families who are on their cancer journey."
The couple hopes their fundraising effort will help the charity continue to provide support to young adults in Wales who are fighting cancer.
Mr Jones added: "Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your support — whether through a donation or simply sharing this page.
"Together, we can help give the Sir Gareth Edwards Cancer Charity the recognition it deserves, and support families across Wales for many years to come."
