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, 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 which 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. For the latest Rhondda news, sign up to our newsletter here.
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.”
Matt was rushed to Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil in October 2023 after suddenly losing the use of his left arm
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.
“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.
“Thank you to every single one of you who donate to his GoFundMe and for every share. From family, friends to complete strangers you bought us more time and we’ll be forever grateful to all of you.
“I’ll see you on the other side
“In true Math style…. Stay beautiful.”
Matthew on the one year anniversary of his diagnosis(Image: Matthew Collins)
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. You can read that in full here.
Matthew 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 (here’s hoping my Gran took her deep fat fryer with her so I can have some of her homemade chips that she used to do when I was little. She left the vinegar bottle behind, it’s in the house. I must remember that).
“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. I’ll be watching over you to make sure, but not in a creepy way, I promise. I’ll close my eyes during any nude or intimate moments with a lover. I’ll probably just leave your house for a bit to be honest, even if it’s raining. Also, please don’t be too sad for me; just classic 4-4-2 tears will suffice.
“I can finally say I am happy now. I have had a wonderful life. I have been fortunate to see much of the world and I have been loved unconditionally by the most amazing parents anyone could wish for for 35 years. Most people aren’t that lucky. I am.
“I wish you and your loved ones all the best. Please keep an eye on mine for me if I’m gone: my Mam (Janet), my Dad (Paul), my lovely sister Rachel, her two beautiful children Amelie and Flynn, and Flynn’s Dad, Lloyd. Claire. My friends too. I love them all very much.
“Stay beautiful. Matt x.”
Matthew Collins (left) watching Wales at the Cardiff City Stadium (Image: Matthew Collins)
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.”
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