Matt MacGrath Cancer Battle

My name is Bradshaw Campbell and I need your help. My best friend, Matt MacGrath, has recently been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. With the shock and sadness of this news, Matt has his chin exposed and is ready for his next fight. This is where I need your help. With the treatment plan, Matt is off work, prepared to do what is necessary to make a full recovery. Although this allows him to be able to fully concentrate on his treatment, it unfortunately comes at a cost. Being off work will create financial stress, which is not what is needed right now. Your support can ease the stress during this time.

Matt supports his beautiful family - his wife, Melanie, and their three children. He operates Renzo Gracie BJJ & MMA gym located in Charlottetown, PEI, Tsuyoi Judo Club and Eastern Grind Wrestling Club.

Matt is well known as PEI’s “Belt Collector”, capturing titles across the country throughout his mixed martial arts career. He is a true role model for others; successful and hardworking, while remaining truly humble about his achievements. You would never know his sports accolades because this is secondary to his dedication to his family and friends. He is always just Matt.

But with all his personal achievements and successes, it is his community involvement and volunteer work that sets Matt apart from others. He has given thousands of hours to teach, develop and train young athletes in Judo, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Mixed Martial Arts. I can personally attest that this man is forever changing the lives of athletes who may not have otherwise had a chance. This isn’t something you will hear Matt boast about. That isn’t him.

When there is a load to carry, Matt is there. When there are tough times, Matt is there. When people need to be lifted up, Matt is there. The time has come for us to be there for Matt in his time of need. I ask this of his friends and family, the sports communities he is involved in, the greater PEI community and those he has helped across this country.

If you are reading this and you don’t think that you know Matt, I can assure you that you do. Think back in your life and consider that special friend, family member or coach who always went the extra mile for you? Have you had someone who carried you through tough times when your chips were down? Have you had someone who guided you through life, helping you where you needed it most? If the answer is yes, then you know my friend, Matt. This is his life. A humble husband, father, coach, mentor, co-worker, and friend to all.

I came across a Greek proverb that I think captures Matt in a nutshell. All the things that he has done for others, the community he supports, the athletes he has nurtured and trained, and the difference he has made in others. It goes like this:

“A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit in.”

I humbly ask that you do the following to help:

1. Share this link to your social media.

2. Make a donation. (Yes, times are tough, I know. NO amount is too small.)

3. Leave a note to let Matt and his family know you are behind them during his fight.

Please continue to support Matt and his family in whatever way possible. Take the time to say a special prayer and keep him in your thoughts as he begins his battle. On behalf of his many friends and family, I sincerely thank you for your support.