The Foundation was set up in 2008 in memory of Alexander (Sacha) Borthwick who died on the 19 July 2007 aged just 35 after a long and courageous battle with lymphatic cancer.
The aims of the Foundation are to raise funds to further the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of lymphatic cancers, as well as to support organisations focussed on palliative care and bereavement support for families going through the trauma of losing loved ones to cancer. The Foundation also assists a number of environmental causes that were close to Sacha's heart and has initiated a bursary programme at the School of Earth Sciences at Bristol University to support students financially who become ill during their studies.
Sacha was born in Kent but grew up in Wales with his brother Charlie where his love for the outdoors and environment started. He met Lucy, the love of his life, through mutual friends when they were 20 and they married in 1999. Olivia, the apple of his eye and his greatest achievement was born in 2002.
He was first diagnosed with lymphoma at the age of 20, during his time at Bristol University, but was determined to finish his geology degree which he did in true Sacha style with a 2:1. He then moved to Imperial College where he completed his Masters in mining and finance which catapulted him into the City where he became a leading voice on Uranium.
After 10 years in remission, his lymphoma sadly returned and after a five-year battle with the disease, Sacha passed away in July 2007. He fought with tremendous grace, courage and good humour right to the very end, and continued working even into his final weeks. He never forgot his priorities - Lucy and Olivia - and never let his illness get in the way of their precious time together as a young family.
He was a much-loved son, brother, husband, father and an immensely loyal friend and we the Trustees felt the responsibility to honour his life. We set up the Foundation in order that his death may have not been in vain and so that his memory and legacy may continue in perpetuity. From tragedy there must come some good, some purpose - and he truly was a brilliant example to everyone on how to face the inevitable challenges life throws at us all with grace and humour.
His death:
Was unfair? Yes
Untimely? Without doubt.
But in vain? No. That is for us, his family and friends, to ensure is not the case.
