Murray first noticed symptoms at the end of 2021 and, after many months of tests and appointments with specialists he and his family were given the news in May.
As a consequence of his illnesses it will mean he will need specialist equipment in order to maintain a quality of life over the coming months. The GoFundMe campaign has been launched by Tuesday Foster, who works at First Contact Chefs, Murray’s chef recruitment business. It aims to raise £50,000 to help meet the cost of some of this equipment.
A former Michelin star chef, Murray set up A Passion to Inspire in 2009, a not-for-profit initiative to support front and back of house students on their journey through education, by working with colleges, renowned chefs, suppliers and operators.
As well as organising dozens of events to provide skills training, mentoring and competitions for hundreds of students, A Passion To Inspire has also raised £240,000 for charities such as Teenage Cancer Trust and Hospitality Action.
Foster said: “I can’t put into words the feelings of despair I felt upon hearing the news of Murray’s diagnosis. Since then, the enormity of what this means for Murray and his family, and the challenges they will face as this cruel disease takes hold, is starting to become a reality, and one they cannot escape from, but one they must meet head on.
“They will need to be brave and allow their friends and industry community to help in whichever way they can. Our hope for a cure one day will keep us going but for now, looking after Murray's mental and physical health and wellbeing is paramount. Thank you for anything you can donate, it is deeply appreciated.”
A Craft Guild of Chefs Master Craftsman, Murray is also a member of the Master Chefs of Great Britain and a Disciple Escoffier (2023). Last year he was awarded a ‘Very Special National Hero Award’ by the Craft Guild, won a Catey award for Training and Education in 2021 and won the Guild’s People's Choice Award in 2019.