Gethin Jones' poignant message to terminally ill friend who refuses to give up

Gethin Jones has paid tribute to his friend Craig Maxwell following his extraordinary charity feats.

Maxwell, a former Welsh Rugby Union and Six Nations commercial chief, organised a charity gala at the Celtic Manor this week, with more than £600,000 raised on the night, taking his overall total to £2.3million.

In September 2022, Maxwell received the devastating news he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The inspirational figure channelled his diagnosis by undertaking a number of physical charity feats, completing the London Marathon, leading a bike ride from Cardiff to Paris, walking the 780-mile Wales Coastal Path in just 26 days before delivering the match ball ahead of Wales' 2024 Six Nations clash with France - while also rowing 72 miles from Tenby to Cardiff.

At the event in Newport, Maxwell admitted life over the last year had got harder and that the cancer had spread to roughly 30 different parts of his body.

Jones, who was the compere for the night and who has shared a long friendship with Maxwell, paid tribute to him in an emotional social media post.

From the source "For those of you who don’t know me, I am @craig.maxwell.526 ‘s friend, Gethin," he wrote on his Instagram account.

"Craig is a man with a purpose – a determination to make a real difference to the lives of those affected by cancer.

"The amount of money he’s helped to raise is simply incredible, but behind that figure is a story of courage, commitment, resilience and an unwavering desire to help others.

"Waking up in '8/10 pain' yesterday would have been enough for most people to take a step back. Not Craig. From the attention to detail and care throughout the day, to making sure everything came together and delivering on the night, his honesty, humour and sheer determination shone through.

"The goal was achieved. And what an achievement it was! 'Destination £2million' and £631,000 on the night!!!

"The generosity of everyone who supported, donated and got behind the cause has given Craig another reason, and even more strength, to keep fighting on.

"For himself, for his family (Tracey the rock of all rocks), and for every single person living with cancer.

"Because this is about so much more than one event or one fundraising total. It’s about hope, support, making a difference and reminding people that they are not alone.

"Craig, your determination is an inspiration. And to everyone who played a part in making this happen, thank you. Never underestimate the difference your generosity can make."

In response, Sarra Hoy, the wife of Sir Chris Hoy, said: "Wow! Congratulations!!! Incredible force in action x."

Jones' co-presenter on the BBC Helen Skelton said: "What a phenomenal amount of money. A testament to Craig. And to your hard work. Xx."

Scott Quinnell, George North and Nigel Owens were just some of the big names who were in attendance at the Celtic Manor, helping support the cause.

"It's been really hard, the last year has been really difficult," Maxwell said when he arrived at the dinner. "The cancer has spread quite far through my body, it gives me quite a lot of pain and fatigue and I've had a lot of different treatments but nights like this do make it all worthwhile.

"I'm doing OK, it's been the hardest year yet out of the four years but I'm doing OK."

You can support Craig's fundraising here. All the money raised goes towards helping charities including Velindre Cancer Care.