A charity football match held at Southwell City Football Club in Nottinghamshire generated more than £1,200 for a woman battling cancer in China

Caring community members are rallying to support a woman after she fell seriously ill - and fund treatment she badly needs to fight stomach cancer.

Shuyu Zheng, who is known as Gwen, was visiting family in China when she became seriously ill. The partner of former Southwell City footballer Matthew Newton was then diagnosed with stage four stomach cancer which has spread to her lymph nodes, liver, lungs, and bones.

Matty rushed to her side and has done everything he can to support her since – and received a boost from a charity football match.

The game featured the 2021/22 Southwell City league champion side, which Matty played in, against his Sunday side Vale FC and raised more than £1,200.

Gwen is unable to return home to Nottinghamshire due to her condition and Matthew said that healthcare in China operates on a fee basis – and donations can be made here.

"The overwhelming support extended to Gwen underscored the depth of care within our community," said Matthew.

"I would like to express our gratitude to Southwell and its manager Jonny Upton for generously permitting the use of their facilities, which contributed significantly to the success of the event.

"Additionally, a raffle conducted during the event made a substantial contribution to the overall fundraising amount.

"The game was professionally recorded by Grass Roots TV and can be watched here.

"Regrettably, Gwen is currently undergoing a chemotherapy treatment plan every two weeks.

"Initially, her response to chemotherapy was positive, with a decline in cancer indicators.

"However, in recent weeks, the effectiveness of chemotherapy has diminished in reducing pain and lowering cancer indicators.

"During Gwen's latest chemotherapy session, her red blood cell count was too low, necessitating a blood transfusion to proceed with chemotherapy the following day once her red blood cell levels increased.

"Unfortunately, her tumors have exhibited no signs of reduction, causing considerable pain in her stomach and surrounding organs.

"The cancer has spread to nearby organs.

"Despite these challenges, Gwen continues to display remarkable strength and positivity, a testament to her resilience in confronting this formidable disease.

"While the charity game was a success, we acknowledge that there is still a substantial journey ahead to reach Gwen's fundraising goal.

"In light of this, we are actively exploring new ideas and strategies to raise awareness and funds.

"The financial support received will not only contribute to Gwen's peace of mind but will also enable her to focus more on her path to recovery without the burden of treatment costs.

"I would like to thank people for their ongoing support."