The fundraising by terminally ill teenager Stephen Sutton has drawn widespread praise after money raised for FA charity partner Teenage Cancer Trust sailed beyond the £1.3m mark.
The 19-year-old raised the money after his final wish went viral. Stephen, from Burntwood in Staffordshire, was diagnosed with incurable colorectal cancer at the age of 15.
Last year he was told it was inoperable, prompting him to write a list of 46 things he wanted to achieve – one of which was to raise £1m for Teenage Cancer Trust.
And through his JustGiving page going viral online, he hit his target just after 11am on Wednesday.
The FA Chairman Greg Dyke was voiced his admiration.
He said: “The passion and imagination shown by this young man is truly inspirational.
“To go through what he has gone through, and yet still make such a huge impact on the lives of others, is an example to us all.
“In raising over £1m for Teenage Cancer Trust he has made a vast contribution to a wonderful charity, and just as importantly, given hope and happiness to so many.”
Stephen enjoyed a special night at Wembley in February 2013 as he and his family were invited to watch England’s victory against Brazil.
After the match met his footballing hero, England captain Steven Gerrard and England players Frank Lampard and Theo Walcott.
For Stephen, it was a night he will never forget.
He said afterwards: “I had a wonderful night watching the England team beat Brazil at Wembley, it is not often you get to say that, it was a great game. Meeting the England players afterwards was amazing as well, they were really friendly and I managed to get some autographs and pictures too.”
Stephen posted on his Facebook page on Tuesday about his deteriorating condition, saying: "It's a final thumbs up from me! I've done well to blag things as well as I have up till now, but unfortunately I think this is just one hurdle too far."
"It's a shame the end has come so suddenly - there's so many people I haven't got round to properly thank or say goodbye to. Apologies for that.
"That's it from me. But life has been good. Very good. Thank you to my mum and the rest of my family for everything.
"Thank you to my friends for being amazing. Thank you to my medical team for the hard work and effort they've continually they've put towards me. And thank you everyone else for sharing this wonderful journey with me. I love you all. x"
You can follow Stephen’s story on facebook: www.facebook.com/StephensStory
