Fundraising campaign for child cancer victim
A family is trying to raise up to £300,000 pounds for medical treatment that could save the life of their five-year-old son. Ryan Edwards from Exeter has been fighting a rare form of cancer since he was 22 months old . Neuroblastoma affects just a hundred children a year , and now Ryans only hope could be to undergo experimental treatment in Germany which comes at a cost. Richard Lawrence went to meet Ryan and his family.
Five-year-old Ryan Edwards from Exeter is an unstoppable bundle of energy. But, for the third time in his life, he is facing an aggressive form of cancer that affects only 100 children a year. Meeting him, you wouldn't know he's recovering from his latest bout of radio and chemo therapy.
He can't go to school and is taught at home as he needs to ensure he escapes any infection as his immune system has been wiped out for now by intense therapies.
In 2008, he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma which was treated successfully and he was given an all clear. For nearly a year he escaped further hospital treatment but his condition deteriated and he has relapsed twice.
Experimental treatment in Germany could be his only hope. However it could cost as much as £300,000 pounds. Ryan shows an amazing spirit. He has no fear of going to hospital no matter how invasive the treatment can be. In fact, he makes the most of his time there. His strength gives his mum and dad the ability to cope too.
Together with the the Neuroblastoma alliance charity, his parents Gareth and Julie have begun fundraising and have been overwhelmed by initial support. Events include a "wearing something red for Ryan day" this Friday .
The family has nothing but praise for the medical attention they have received in Exeter , Bristol, London and Germany. They are currently waiting tests that will establish if his current has worked and whether he'll be able to respond to the treatment which could take place in Germany this Summer.
You can follow or donate to the appeal or visit their blog