Matt's Story

Matt’s Canaan Trust was founded to honour the memory of Matthew Leitch, who died from a rare, malignant brain tumour weeks before his 14th birthday in 2002.

Whilst nursing Matthew full-time for 17 months at home, his mum and dad, Mark and Lynette discovered what a challenging task that was. When a loved one, especially a child, is seriously ill, family carers are often unable or unwilling to take a break from the bedside of the patient.

During his illness, they dreamed of helping other families with loved-ones suffering from life-limiting illnesses to have precious time together, away from their gruelling daily schedules. With Matt’s approval, they planned to set up a charity to offer dream breaks and holidays to those in similar situations.

Tragically, Matthew died before seeing this dream become a reality, but his memory lives on as his devoted parents seek to share something of his life and compassionate nature with others.

“The one crucial thing we can do for them after their death is to let them be witnesses for God and for life.” – Harold S Kushner – ‘When Bad Things Happen To Good People’.

Matt’s Canaan Trust is the continuing story of a truly remarkable and caring boy...

Mark & Lynette Leitch – Matt's Canaan Trust

Run in the Brighton Marathon on Sunday April 15th (no VIP). Registration is now closed, however we have 4 places available for 2012, with only registration fee needed.

Run on behalf of Matt's Canaan Trust in this prestigious event, and help touch the lives of those facing terminal illness.

Click here for more details