A FUNDRAISING campaign has been launched for the former Exeter City crowd favourite Danny Bailey, who has recently been diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer.
The now 60-year-old spent two spells as a player with the Grecians and was an integral part of the 1989/90 Fourth Division Championship winning team which saw him earn a place in the PFA’s team of the season.
His form in his first spell at St James Park earned him an £50,000 move to Reading in December 1990, but he returned to St James Park for a second spell in December 1992, where he played for a further five years. In total, Bailey made 256 appearances for the club, scoring 11 goals.
After leaving Exeter and numerous spells at clubs in non-League football, Bailey started the Bailey Football Academy and Interwood FC, with his brother, Trevor, which is based in East London. The likes of Omar Beckles, Colin Kazim-Richards, Marcus Edwards, Recee Oxford and Dwight Gayle are known to have progressed through the Academy.
However, Bailey was diagnosed with prostate cancer two years ago. Last year, he underwent surgery, which doctors hoped would give him the all-clear. Unfortunately, recent test results showed that the cancer had spread and he was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer.
Theo Constantinou is organising a fundraising appeal on behalf of Bailey and said: “We are coming together to support Danny in his fight and give him the best possible chance.
“Danny has dedicated his entire life to giving back - both on and off the pitch. As a former professional footballer for Exeter City and Fulham, he knows what it means to push through challenges. But his biggest impact has been beyond his playing career.
“Danny founded Interwood Football Academy, with his late brother, Trevor Bailey, where he has mentored and shaped the futures of countless young players. Through his unwavering dedication, he has helped guide many to professional careers, instilling values of discipline, resilience, and passion. He has also been a proud ambassador for the football industry, using his platform to inspire and uplift others.
“Now, Danny needs our support. We are raising funds to take him to a renowned clinic in the USA for specialised treatment that could give him a fighting chance. We are also raising funds to provide Danny with the opportunity to utilise alternative treatments, equipment and supplements.
“Medical costs, travel, and ongoing care are a huge financial burden, and any contribution - no matter how small - will make a difference.”
Anyone wishing to donate to the cause can do so by visiting www.GoFundMe.com and searching for Danny Bailey.
