A boy from Sudbury was determined to do what he could to help his best friend with leukaemia – and was delighted when the community rallied behind them. 

The lives of the Crawford and Richardson families are intertwined, explained Vicki Crawford.

Her best friend is Becky Richardson. Meanwhile, her son Charlie’s best friend is Becky’s son, Riley. Their younger children, too, are the best of friends.  

The two boys were looking forward to starting secondary school together in September. However, the day before, Vicki received a devastating call from Becky, to tell her that 12-year-old Riley had been diagnosed with leukaemia.  

“Their world was turned upside down in the space of a day,” said Vicki. Riley has been having treatment at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge for the past three months. 

Charlie, 11, was left desperately wanting to support his friend, but not knowing how. 

“He said, Mum, I really want to do something, but I feel helpless,” said Vicki. 

Sudbury Mercury: Riley, left, and Charlie, right, are best friends. Meanwhile, their mothers are also best friends, as are their younger siblings. Image: Vicki CrawfordRiley, left, and Charlie, right, are best friends. Meanwhile, their mothers are also best friends, as are their younger siblings. Image: Vicki Crawford (Image: Vicki Crawford)

Sudbury Mercury: The Richardson and Crawford siblings are all the best of friends. L-R: Older brothers Riley Richardson and Charlie Crawford, and younger brothers Jude Richardson and Freddie Crawford.The Richardson and Crawford siblings are all the best of friends. L-R: Older brothers Riley Richardson and Charlie Crawford, and younger brothers Jude Richardson and Freddie Crawford. (Image: Vicki Crawford)Sudbury Mercury: Becky Richardson with her sons, Jude and Riley.Becky Richardson with her sons, Jude and Riley. (Image: Vicki Crawford)Sudbury Mercury: Becky Richardson, left, and Vicki Crawford, right, are also best friends. Image: Vicki CrawfordBecky Richardson, left, and Vicki Crawford, right, are also best friends. Image: Vicki Crawford (Image: Vicki Crawford)

Recently, Vicki discussed setting up a fundraiser for Becky.

She has not been able to work during Riley’s treatment, and the costs of driving to Cambridge and back several times a week, and the hidden costs such as food and carparking have been mounting up. 

Becky was initially unsure, but Vicki was convinced that people would want to support her friend during this difficult time, so Becky agreed. 

With Vicki’s help, Charlie set up a GoFundMe on New Year’s Day. “Every penny counts, and I would be very grateful if you could please help my best friend,” Charlie wrote.  

“I really hope 2024 is the year he wins this battle.” 

Sudbury Mercury: Charlie Crawford (right) said that he hopes 2024 is the year that Riley wins his battle. Image: Vicki CrawfordCharlie Crawford (right) said that he hopes 2024 is the year that Riley wins his battle. Image: Vicki Crawford (Image: Vicki Crawford)

He had hoped to raise £500. So, it was a shock to everyone when the fundraiser amassed £1,000 in just 24 hours. 

Currently, the fundraiser stands at £4,190 and is still rising. 

“We never imagined that so many local people would want to help,” said Vicki. “We’ve all been totally blown away.  

“This is such a relief for Becky, and it really will make such a big difference. This will help them get through the next few months.” 

To donate, search ‘Riley's Biggest Battle’ on gofundme.com or click here