Everyone at Fitness Worx is incredibly proud of our lifetime member, Gita Patel, who recently had the honour of meeting His Majesty King Charles III in recognition of her outstanding charitable work and dedication to helping others.
Gita is the driving force behind the Milan Patel Legacy Fundraising campaign, a remarkable initiative established in memory of her beloved son, Milan. Through tireless fundraising efforts, Gita continues to transform personal tragedy into hope, support, and opportunity for countless young people and families facing cancer.
Milan’s Story
Milan Patel was a football-mad teenager who played for Kenilworth Wardens Football Club in Warwickshire from the age of six. Passionate about the game, Milan’s determination and love of football remained unwavering even during the toughest battles of his young life.
In January 2012, at just 11 years old, Milan underwent surgery to remove a lump from his spine. The diagnosis that followed was devastating: a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer called Ewing’s sarcoma.
Over the next year, Milan endured gruelling chemotherapy and proton therapy treatments, spending every third week in hospital. Despite the challenges, he approached every day with courage, resilience, and an inspiringly positive attitude.
After receiving the all-clear in December 2012, the cancer sadly returned in September 2013. Milan once again faced months of chemotherapy, followed by a stem cell transplant and high-dose chemotherapy at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
In April 2014, Milan was again told he was cancer-free. Tragically, just two months later, the cancer returned for a third time. In December 2014, Milan and his family received the heartbreaking news that the disease had spread.
On Monday, 2nd March 2015, surrounded by his family at home, Milan sadly lost his battle with cancer.
Throughout his treatment, Milan continued to train and play football whenever his health allowed. His determination, positivity, and courage inspired everyone who knew him and continue to inspire many more today.
Creating a Lasting Legacy
Following Milan’s passing, Gita and her family established the Milan Patel Legacy Fundraising campaign to ensure his spirit lives on through helping others.
The campaign raises vital funds for organisations that played a significant role during Milan’s journey, including:
- Teenage Cancer Trust
- Birmingham Children’s Hospital
- Bone Cancer Research Trust
A particular focus of the fundraising supports Teenage Cancer Trust, an organisation that provided invaluable support not only to Milan but also to his family and friends throughout their cancer journey.
Thanks to Gita’s unwavering commitment, thousands of pounds have been raised to support young people facing cancer and to fund vital research and care services.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Meeting King Charles was a fitting recognition of Gita’s extraordinary dedication to charitable causes and her determination to create something positive from unimaginable loss.
Her work embodies the values of compassion, resilience, and community spirit. By continuing to share Milan’s story and support life-changing charities, Gita ensures that his legacy continues to make a difference every single day.
From everyone at Fitness Worx, we congratulate Gita on this incredible honour. We are immensely proud to have her as part of our Fitness Worx family and thank her for the inspiration she provides to us all.
Milan’s legacy lives on through every life touched, every family supported, and every pound raised in his memory.
JUST GIVING TEAM PAGE – https://www.justgiving.com/teams/InspiredByMilan
