By D. Maan, Jadetimes News
Technoblade's Legacy, A Global Impact
The death of Minecraft YouTuber Technoblade, whose real name was Alex, left millions of fans heartbroken two years ago. Diagnosed with sarcoma, a rare cancer affecting bones and soft tissue, just a year before his passing at the age of 23, his story has had a profound impact on his followers and fellow YouTubers. Many have taken up his legacy, raising significant funds for research into the condition. Sarcomas affect just over 5,000 people annually, with around 400 of those being young individuals like Tom from south west London, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at 19.
Inspiration and Awareness Through Gaming
Tom, a 21 year old gamer, shares that before Technoblade's public battle with sarcoma, he hadn't known any famous person with the disease. "It's good to know he got people talking about it," says Tom. Technoblade's diagnosis came after he experienced what he thought was a gaming related stress injury, which later turned out to be cancer. Tom’s own experience was similar, with his leg pain initially dismissed as a sports injury. Only through seeing a specialist was the true cause discovered. Thanks to advances in cancer research, Tom received innovative treatment and is now in remission.
Community and Fundraising Efforts
Big names in the streaming community, including TommyInnit, who has nearly 15 million followers, have continued Technoblade's mission to raise awareness and funds for sarcoma research. TommyInnit expresses his admiration for Technoblade and emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and supporting the fight against sarcoma. Plans for fundraising events like the Jingle Jam, where gamers and their audiences donate through live streams, are underway, highlighting the community's commitment.
Sarcoma UK's Mission Boosted by Gamers
Richard Davidson, CEO of Sarcoma UK, notes the transformative impact of the gaming community’s involvement, with fundraising efforts inspired by Technoblade raising about £1 million. This influx of support has revolutionized the charity's capabilities in funding research and spreading awareness. Davidson stresses the importance of early detection, urging people to get unusual symptoms checked out promptly. The passionate and engaged gaming community has been crucial in spreading this message.
Building Connections and Support Networks
It's not just gamers making a difference. Eleni, a 20 year old from Portsmouth who was misdiagnosed with a sports injury before learning she had cancer, is now advocating for young cancer patients. She appreciates the role gamers play in raising the profile of sarcomas and emphasizes the additional benefit of building a support network among patients. Both Tom and Eleni find comfort and improved mental health through connections with others who have faced similar battles, underscoring the importance of community in their journeys.