My name is Ethan Rousseau, and I’m taking part in this white-collar boxing event in memory of a dear friend, Alex Collier, who sadly passed away this year.

I’m 26 years old and have taken part in two fights before, making this my third. Outside of boxing, I’m also the owner of my own local business, Quirky Retro Vintage.

Cancer affects an unimaginable number of people and families. Around 1,100 people are diagnosed with cancer every day in the UK and in jersey an average of about 2.8 malignant cancer diagnoses occur per day, adding around 1,032 total cases per year. Behind every one of those numbers is a person, along with friends and family whose lives can also be completely changed by the disease.

That’s one of the reasons I chose to support this charity. Their work isn’t just about supporting the person living with cancer, but also helping the families and loved ones going through it alongside them.

For me, this fight is personal. I’m stepping into the ring in memory of Alex, while hopefully raising as much money as I can for a cause that helps people facing some of the hardest moments of their lives.

I lost both my grandmothers to cancer, and watched both my parent’s battle it and win, and now I’ve lost my best friend, I want to bring more awareness to the support that can be found when facing this horrific disease. You never have to do it alone. 

This fight is my small way of fighting back.

If you’re able to donate — no matter how much — I would be incredibly grateful. Every donation goes towards a wonderful charity doing exceptional work.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, thank you for your support, and most importantly:

This one’s for you, Alex.