Text Santa: How Brian house helped Michael

A remarkable young man has fought back from a rare condition to be an inspiration to others. Michael Willacy, 16, from Blackpool suddenly collapsed whilst on holiday after his braine swelled up causing permanent damage.

But he still managed to get himself 5 GCSE's this year and is studying for a career in IT. Michael says he wouldn't be the young man he is today without the support of his local hospice, Brian house. Read his story below:

Sport mad teenager Michael was used to being on the rugby pitch until he suddenly collapsed two years ago. He was diagnosed with a a rare condition called Rasmussen's encephalitis, which caused his brain to swell. It affected one side of his body, his speech and causes occasional fits. At 16 he's already been through chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant.

"Before I was a full fit rugby player and that's the one thing I really missed. When I found out I couldn't do that any more I broke down and cried, that was the thing I really loved."

But Michael is well on the road to recovery, he spends one day a week at hospice Brian House in Blackpool - here he can talk to care workers for emotional support, and stay overnight to give his parents a rest. He also managed to get 5 GCSE's this year

And as a reward his favourite football team Blackpool FC paid him a visit.

Presenting Michael with a signed ball Tom Ince said: "Us players don't realise how lucky we are, have to pay respect to those who aren't in our shoes. Putting a smile on someone like Michael's face is like scoring a goal for me."

This year ITV's Text Santa appeal is supporting the charity Help the Hospices who help fund places like Brian house. To find out more about the appeal click [here. ]( http://www.itv.com/textsanta)