Kaiden Edwards, from Flackwell Heath, Buckinghamshire, joined Everton and England midfielder James Garner at a match against Sunderland, wearing a large shirt marked with ‘2 BIG’.
Kaiden Edwards was diagnosed in March 2024 (Image: Children with Cancer)
The shirt symbolised that many children with cancer, like Kaiden, are treated with adult drugs, causing severe side effects.
This marked the start of the ‘2 BIG’ campaign by Children with Cancer UK, pushing for more funding for safer treatments for youngsters.
Currently, only 2% of cancer research funding is allocated for children, despite half of childhood cancer survivors suffering long-term effects from adult treatments.
Kaiden’s journey began in October 2021 when he started experiencing dizziness, headaches, and sickness.
After multiple GP visits, an MRI scan in June 2022 confirmed he had a brain tumour.
He underwent a range of treatments including surgery, proton beam therapy, and seven months of chemotherapy before completing treatment in June 2023.
Sadly, in March 2024, doctors informed Kaiden’s family that the cancer had returned to his spinal cord and the tumour was inoperable.
He has since been receiving chemotherapy directly to his head through a port—a treatment also used for adults.
Kaiden Edwards was diagnosed in March 2024 (Image: Children with Cancer)
His mother, Kathryn Edwards, said: “We try not to look too far ahead because childhood cancer teaches you to take things one day at a time.
“My hope is always for tomorrow; that Kaiden is comfortable, that he’s smiling, that he gets to enjoy moments like today.
“We’ve seen the impact treatment can have on a growing child’s body.
“No child should have to endure treatments that were originally designed for adults when there is the potential for kinder, more targeted options.”
The match took place a day after what would have been Bradley Lowery’s 15th birthday.
Bradley, a Sunderland fan, died from cancer in 2017 at the age of six.
Everton and Sunderland fans paid tribute to Bradley with a banner in his honour.
His parents, Carl and Gemma Lowery, attended the match as guests of the club.
Kaiden Edwards was diagnosed in March 2024 (Image: Children with Cancer)
The Bradley Lowery Foundation, set up in his memory, continues to support families raising money for treatment and equipment not available through the NHS.
The ‘2 BIG’ campaign is urging people to support research into childhood and young adult cancers.
Donations can be made at childrenwithcancer.org.uk/too-big/.
Later this year, the oversized shirt worn by Kaiden, signed by the Everton team, will be auctioned to raise money for childhood cancer research.