The Inspiring Journey of Keanu Black and His Parents Fight Against Leukaemia

In the heart of Southampton, a story of resilience and hope shines brightly, illuminating the profound impact of community, family, and determination. This is the story of James and Hannah Black and their son, Keanu, who, against all odds, overcame a life-altering diagnosis and are now dedicating their lives to helping others in similar battles.

A Dream Deferred: Keanu’s Diagnosis

In early 2020, Keanu Black was a 12-year-old boy living out his dream. Just days after signing a two-year contract with the Southampton Football Academy, Keanu received devastating news that would shatter any child’s world. He was diagnosed with leukaemia, a form of blood cancer that threatened not only his football career but his life.

The diagnosis came like a bolt from the blue, just two days after Keanu had taken a significant step toward his future in football. His dreams were suddenly placed on hold as he embarked on a gruelling journey of treatment, spending the next eight months in a hospital. During this time, Keanu underwent four rounds of chemotherapy, endured over 60 blood and platelet transfusions, and faced the harsh realities of battling cancer. But Keanu’s spirit remained unbroken.

A Triumphant Return

Thanks to the tireless efforts of the medical staff at the Southampton Children’s Ward and the unwavering support of his family, Keanu made an incredible recovery. Now 16 years old, Keanu is not just a survivor—he’s a fighter who has returned to the football field with renewed determination. He currently plays for Aldershot’s U18 team and has recently completed his studies at The Mountbatten School.

Giving Back: James and Hannah’s Pledge

Keanu’s journey profoundly impacted his parents, Hannah and James Black, the Director of CSW Cladding. Deeply moved by the care and treatment their son received, James and Hannah have pledged to give back in a meaningful way. As a founding member of Club 10 they have committed to donating £10,000 annually for the next five years to support the Paediatric Network, an initiative set to be announced during Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September.

“We will be forever grateful to the incredible staff at the Southampton Children’s Ward that treated Keanu,” James said. “My wife Hannah and I feel that it is the right thing to give back and get involved with fundraising for Cure Leukaemia through Run the Nations and to help with funding for the Paediatric Network.”

Their generosity doesn’t stop there, as they have also committed to supporting Cure Leukaemia’s Chief Executive, James McLaughlin, with CSW Cladding as the headline sponsor of Run The Nations and sponsoring the Southampton leg. On Wednesday, September 11th, James and Hannah will lace up his trainers and run alongside McLaughlin, demonstrating their personal commitment to the cause.

The Impact of Community Support

James McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Cure Leukaemia, expressed his gratitude for the support from CSW Cladding and highlighted the significant difference such contributions make. “The support from businesses like CSW Cladding is invaluable. It enables us to continue our work in funding Research Nurses across the UK. During Blood Cancer Awareness Month, we urge more businesses to join us in this fight against blood cancer.”

The partnership between Cure Leukaemia and CSW Cladding underscores the importance of community and corporate involvement in fighting diseases like leukaemia. It also serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, hope can be restored, and lives can be transformed.

Moving Forward with Purpose

The story of Keanu Black is one of resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. His journey from a hospital bed back to the football pitch is a source of inspiration to many. For James Black, the battle is far from over. His commitment to supporting paediatric cancer treatment through Cure Leukaemia is a testament to the difference one family can make in the lives of others.

As September unfolds, marking Blood Cancer Awareness Month, the story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of giving back, supporting research, and ensuring that no child has to face the battle against leukaemia alone.