Luke, from Perton and an employee of Black Country Chamber member Sherwood Stainless & Aluminium Ltd, launched Luke’s Down Under: Bite Against Cancer following his own experiences with melanoma and kidney cancer. Diagnosed with melanoma aged 35, Luke later underwent surgery for kidney cancer. His fundraising mission aims to turn those experiences into practical support for others affected by cancer.
The campaign is raising money for four charities: Cancer Research UK, Kidney Cancer UK, Macmillan Cancer Support and Melanoma UK. Having raised almost £10,000 towards his £20,000 target, Luke is now seeking further backing from businesses across Wolverhampton, the wider Black Country and beyond.
In October 2027, Luke plans to spend four days on a boat off South Australia and undertake a Great White Shark cage-diving challenge. In preparation, he has been completing diving training and has also taken part in the Macmillan Mighty Hike half marathon — dressed as a shark.
His story and fundraising efforts have attracted media attention, helping to raise awareness of both the campaign and the charities it supports. The focus now is on building that momentum into a lasting community effort.
Alongside the diving challenge, Luke has launched The Great Shark Draw, a fundraising raffle featuring more than 50 prizes donated by generous businesses and supporters. Prizes include experiences, days out, signed Wolverhampton Wanderers memorabilia, dining vouchers and other treats. A live draw is planned for December 2026.
Raffle entry options are £5 for one strip (five tickets), £10 for three strips (15 tickets), or £20 for eight strips (40 tickets). To enter online, supporters can donate through the campaign’s GiveStar page and include RAFFLE in the donation comment.
Luke is inviting local businesses — from independent firms to major employers — to support the appeal in whatever way works for them. Opportunities include:
Supporting businesses can be acknowledged through the campaign website and social media, with recognition discussed according to the nature of their support.
“I’d love Black Country businesses to be part of this journey. Whether it’s a donation, a prize, a workplace fundraiser or simply sharing the appeal, every bit of support helps us make a difference for people affected by cancer.”
— Luke Rogers, fundraiser
Businesses interested in sponsoring the fundraiser, donating a prize or arranging workplace fundraising can contact Luke directly. The campaign website also shares Luke’s story, updates and ways to get involved.
Campaign website: www.lukesbiteagainstcancer.co.uk
Donate or enter The Great Shark Draw: GiveStar fundraising page
Business enquiries: lukesbiteagainstcancer@gmail.com
