Eighteen-year-old Torquay United Women footballer Roxy Thomas is in intensive care at Bristol Royal Infirmary following two brain tumour operations, with her family reporting she is “doing well” and able to breathe on her own for short periods after beginning radiotherapy at the end of October.
Thomas was diagnosed in August, entering a medical pathway that included two operations. Following surgery, she requires intensive post-operative care.
The recent milestone of breathing independently for brief intervals marks a positive step forward during recovery in an intensive care setting.
Targeted Radiotherapy and Hospital Protocol
The therapeutic plan advanced at the end of October with the initiation of radiotherapy, which “has gone well”.
"Roxy Thomas, 18, a Torquay United Women defender (formerly of Plymouth Argyle), was diagnosed with a brain tumour in early August 2026 and had two operations shortly afterwards." pic.twitter.com/9kS5ri1rPp
Thomas will remain in hospital for the next six weeks while she “undergoes her course of treatment”.
Crowdfunding and Regional Football Solidarity
Alongside the clinical developments, local football clubs and supporters have galvanized financial and logistical backing. A crowdfunding initiative established to assist Thomas and her family has raised about £28,000. These funds are designated to offset travel costs, accommodation during hospital stays, loss of income during treatment, and further medical expenses not covered by the NHS.
Regional sporting entities have actively contributed to the total. Plymouth Argyle and Marine Academy Plymouth donated the gate receipts from recent matches against Torquay to the fundraiser. A total of £2,928 was raised through support from players, staff and mascots from both clubs.
Supporters held up Thomas’s Argyle and Torquay shirts bearing her name and number, while Torquay players wore yellow armbands displaying her number – three.
Thomas came through the ranks at Argyle before signing for the Gulls in 2025. During her time there, she played a significant role in a treble-winning season and was named Young Player of the Season. Torquay United officials noted that everyone at the club “continues to keep Roxy and her family in their thoughts during what remains an incredibly difficult time”.
The family shared the update regarding her independent breathing milestones. While the initial radiation course has gone well, she will remain in hospital for the next six weeks as she continues her treatment.
