Crowdfunder set up in memory of big-hearted Peterborough dad who died from rare form of cancer after noticing pain in upper arm
Tributes have been paid to a “big-hearted” Peterborough dad who lost his battle with a rare form of bone cancer, aged just 34.
James Eaton sadly passed away on February 5 – on the eve of his daughter Kadie’s birthday.
Described as a devoted dad with a “big heart and a curious soul” – James had been battling Spindle Cell Sarcoma after first noticing pain in his left arm.
It is a rare form of bone cancer, typically affecting patients over the age of 40, and James is said to have made numerous trips to his GP before the pain was finally investigated further.
A crowdfunder has now been set up in James’s memory – to help his family to pay for his funeral.
Becky Mallen, Kadie’s mum, said: “At just 34 years old, we lost James Eaton after a brave battle with spindle cell sarcoma. He was a deeply caring and devoted father who loved his child more than anything in this world - being a dad was his greatest joy and proudest role.
“He had a big heart and a curious soul. He loved gaming, collecting coins, and searching for old memorabilia, finding meaning and stories in the smallest details. Those passions reflected who he was: thoughtful, patient, and full of quiet wonder. He sadly passed on the evening of his daughters 11th birthday.”
Speaking about his initial symptoms, Becky said it began with a strong pain in his upper arm. “He approached his GP about this with his mum’s help numerous times before they did any test - they just kept giving him stronger pain meds over months of visits.”
The family is hoping to raise around £2000 to help pay for James’s funeral.
“Our family is now facing the unimaginable heartbreak of saying goodbye, along with the financial burden of laying him to rest,” Becky explained. “We want to give him a memorable send-off that honors the loving father, brother, son and person he was, but we simply don’t have the funds to do so on our own.
“Any contribution would mean more to us than words can express. Thank you for your kindness, support, and for helping us honor his life and legacy.”
To support the family in memory of James, visit their GoFundMe page.