On Saturday, 17th May 2025, members of George Stephenson Lodge and Severus Lodge held a joint social evening, during which cheques totalling £2,000 were presented to Ward 35 of the Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Trust at the Freeman Hospital, Newcastle.
The presentation was made by W. Bros. John Hutchinson, Ivor Gregory, and George Tuck, on behalf of Trevor and Josh Watson.
This heartfelt donation recognises the outstanding care and support given to Joshua Watson, who was treated at the Freeman Hospital’s Teenage Cancer Unit.
W. Bros. John Hutchinson, Ivor Gregory, and George Tuck present a £2,000 donation to Ward 35 of the Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Trust on behalf of Trevor and Joshua Watson.
Joshua’s Story
Joshua Watson is described by his family as a kind, polite, and funny young man. Born at just 23 weeks and weighing less than 1lb, he has faced many challenges throughout his life, including severe learning difficulties and autism.
In January 2024, at the age of 20, Joshua broke his arm. Following scans at Newcastle RVI, doctors discovered a rare, high-grade osteosarcoma tumour. Despite rounds of intensive chemotherapy, the tumour had spread through Joshua’s arm, and in April 2024, he underwent major surgery to amputate the limb.
The decision was devastating for Joshua and his family, but thanks to his extraordinary strength and resilience, as well as the dedicated care provided by the team at Freeman Hospital, Joshua adapted quickly and has continued to thrive.
Joshua completed his last round of chemotherapy in October 2024 and now undergoes regular monitoring. His parents, Trevor and Joanne, have expressed their immense gratitude for the care their son received:
“What has helped us as a family the most is the amazing team that looked after Joshua at the Freeman, especially on The Teenage Cancer Trust ward. Without them I don’t know how we would have got through this. The care and dedication that staff have for young adults is incredible.”
Continuing Support
The £2,000 donation from George Stephenson and Severus Lodges will directly support the Teenage and Young Adult Cancer Trust at the Freeman Hospital, ensuring that other young people facing similar battles receive the best possible care.
Joshua is now doing well and, in the words of his parents, “living his best life with us.”