Concert to fund African clinic in memory of young cancer victim

TOM Finlay, a student at Lord Williams’s school in Thame, is presenting a charity concert in memory of his friend, Josiah Andrews, who passed away in 2015.

“Josiah and I grew up together at Long Crendon Baptist Church,” explained Tom. “I witnessed the great faith he had in God that was unwavering, even during his battle with cancer, and that gave him the courage and the strength that all of us who knew him so admired. It was this faith that inspired me to put on this concert.

“Josiah was diagnosed with bone cancer in the summer of 2013. When his cancer returned, his faith helped him to keep his good humour and not to be afraid of dying.”

His mother Kathy added: “Josiah’s priorities showed in his plans for his money. He knew that most children around the world don’t have the kind of medical care we have. So he was very clear; choose a charity that is Christian, Medical, in Africa and for Children.”

Josiah’s parents chose The Good Samaritan Clinic in Senegal, West Africa, run by Tenebou and Bethan Manga. “It was a perfect choice,” said Kathy. “Josiah met the Mangas when they were home at our church, and we knew of their excellent work. Also, Dr Bethan grew up in Thame and her parents still live here.”

Rather than spend Josiah’s gift on a piece of equipment, the Mangas have decided to start a new medical outpost in a village that is difficult to reach. Financial gifts toward the project are being collected in the Josiah Fund, at Long Crendon Baptist Church.

The concert will be at Long Crendon Baptist Church, on Saturday, November 18, at 7pm. Entry is free but donations toward the Josiah Fund will be gratefully received on the evening.