Tributes have been paid to a Welsh football fan who has died aged 38, less than three years after being diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour. Matthew Collins, from Aberdare in Rhondda Cynon Taf, was diagnosed with glioblastoma at the age of 35 after being rushed to hospital in October 2023. Medics gave him between 12 and 18 months to live, but he bravely fought against the disease. He had surgery to remove his tumour in 2023, but it later returned.
He died on May 31, surrounded by his family and girlfriend Claire, it has been confirmed. Matthew had organised a fundraiser that enabled him to receive a personalised £100,000 vaccine and other treatments not available on the NHS. It raised nearly £230,000 and helped prolong his life.
Frustration with NHS treatment options
Matthew said earlier this year: "It is deeply frustrating to see treatment options available elsewhere in Europe and the USA that aren't accessible here on the NHS. Even in France, people are reimbursed by the government if they pay privately for treatment abroad. Why isn't the UK doing the same? The NHS needs to be brought up to speed, more needs to be done."
Football fanatic
Matthew was a keen football fan and followed Swansea City and Wales, travelling far and wide to support his country. On Monday, his sister Rachel confirmed news of his death in a heartbreaking post on social media. She wrote: "The update we always knew would come but hoped never would. On the 31st May with my parents, Claire and myself by his side and one of his favourite songs playing, my brother passed away. We cannot put into words how proud we are of him."
She added: "Math, one of your biggest fears was Flynn not remembering who you are. I promise that'll never happen. We talk about you every single day and there won't be a day that goes by when we don't. One day he'll be wearing that Wales shirt for you."
Heartfelt goodbye letter
Following his diagnosis, Matthew spoke openly about the impact the initially undiagnosed tumour had on his life and mental health. In 2023, he wrote a poignant goodbye letter to his friends and loved ones, which was published on WalesOnline. He said at the time: "If I do lose the battle, and if there is an afterlife, be assured the first thing I'll be doing is having a cuppa and a catch-up with my grandparents... So think on that and smile. And I'll be waiting for you, but don't dare rush. Make the most of every day you're given."
Social media tributes
Popular social media account Welsh Football Fans paid tribute to Matthew in a statement. They said: "Our condolences are with the family and friends of Matthew Collins, a beloved member of our Red Wall that has passed away. His time spreading awareness of Glioblastoma alongside his unwavering support of Cymru will never be forgotten. Cofio am byth, Matth."
One person paid tribute on social media by saying: "This has been so tragic but Matthew and his amazing family and partner have been so strong and together fought so hard. RIP Matthew. x" Another wrote: "So sad. Deepest condolences to all the family. Rest in peace."
