McDonald’s staff help to continue Stephen Sutton’s fundraising legacy
Staff from a West Midlands hospitality business have marked the 10th anniversary of Burntwood teenager Stephen Sutton’s death by raising more than £11,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust.
Stephen, who passed away at the age of 19 in May 2024, captured the hearts of the nation for his fundraising efforts through his blog Stephen’s Story after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
And staff from Wright Restaurants (T/A McDonald’s) – owned by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce patron and current West Midlands High Sheriff Doug Wright – have donated £11,305 to the Teenage Cancer Trust in Stephen’s honour.
Mr Wright employs almost 3,000 staff at 26 McDonald’s sites across the region.
His business operates a staff lottery, with proceeds split between the Ronald McDonald House Charity and other local causes.
Over the last six months staff, at the McDonald’s restaurants have donated money to Teenage Cancer Trust.
Stephen has left a lasting legacy, with funds raised through Stephen’s Story now close to £6m.
His mother Jane Sutton said: “I’d like to thank Doug Wright and all the staff at his McDonald’s franchise who contributed towards the fundraising for Stephen’s Story.
“The total of £11,305 was beyond expectations and will provide 376 hours of specialist cancer care for young people between 13 and 24 years of age being supported by Teenage Cancer Trust.
“Stephen always said being treated on a Teenage Cancer Trust unit made a huge difference to his cancer journey as he was surrounded by people of his own age with similar interests.”
Mr Wright said: “Making an impact in our local communities is very important to me.
“My staff are so very generous in donating a £1 every fortnight to support local charities.
“Stephen Sutton was a wonderful young man whose legacy ensures young people are being supported by Teenage Cancer Trust.
“We are very proud of the exceptional work Jane carries out in such a brave and determined way.
“Ten years on we salute Jane and Stephen for the impact they have made both locally and nationally.”
Pictured: Jane Sutton with Doug Wright