FUNDRAISING time is against cancer sufferer Michael Blake if he is to take on the challenge of his life.

The 24-year-old architecture graduate, from Newton Aycliffe, has still not reached a target of £3,000 to let him join a charity trek through the foothills of Nepal.

Michael needs to raise the money by the end of August to be able to take part in the trek, in aid of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

Although Michael still has a life-threatening brain tumour, he is determined to take part in the challenge.

He said: "I'm slowly nearing the total, but I still need some support. I want so much to be part of the trek, because I want to help fellow cancer sufferers who are in the same terrifying position I was in six years ago."

Michael was told by doctors just days after his 18th birthday that he only had a few weeks to live.

But despite the severity of the tumour, Michael fought on and even managed to pass three A-levels from his hospital bed.

Michael said yesterday: "I want youngsters with cancer to know that they can go on to lead normal lives and get through enormous adversity.

"The main thing is not to give up - which is why I won't be giving up on my fundraising."

Anyone wanting to support Michael can e-mail him at M.D.Blakesms.ac.uk, or contact Richard Barker at The Northern Echo, on (01833) 638628, or (01325) 505022