A Scots schoolboywho had more than 30 blood transfusions and chemo in his battle to beat cancer chosen as a posterboy for a new campaign.
Fraser Wood, 7, became ill over the summer of 2022 and became pale and lethargic and left with no energy to play.
He was rushed to hospital in the early hours of the morning in an air ambulance from his home in Aberdeen to the intensive care unit at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow after developing severe breathing problems.
Fraser’s parents Louise Pope, 30, and Jensen Wood, 31, were left devastated when x-rays showed there was fluid around Fraser’s heart and lungs, caused by a tumour pressing on blood vessels in his chest.
But after a harrowing battle with blood cancer, and more than two years of treatment, Fraser is in remission and has received a Cancer Research UK for Children & Young People Star Award for the resilience he has shown. His photograph will be on display in posters in around 500 of the charity’s shops across Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales this spring.
Mum Louise said: “His hair has grown back and his energy has returned. It’s wonderful to watch him getting his strength back and to know that he’s come such a long way. We’re excited to see Fraser’s poster. Knowing Fraser’s story could make a difference to other children like him means so much to us, so we hope people will show their support.”
Fraser was diagnosed with a type of blood cancer known as lymphoblastic lymphoma and had to undergo months of intensive treatment.
He lost all his hair from the chemotherapy and struggled to walk after suffering a bout of infections which meant he couldn’t play with other kids while hundreds of miles from his home.
The boy spent weeks away from his little sister Freya, 4, as he fought for his life while she was cared for by relatives in Aberdeen.
In total, he had more than 30 blood transfusions, chemotherapy and endured dozens of medical procedures during months of treatment.
He spent his fifth birthday opening his presents in hospital while receiving chemotherapy treatment but his mum said he remained “resilient.”
After 28 months of chemotherapy , Fraser rang the bell to mark the end of treatment on December 9 last year at Aberdeen Children’s Hospital,
Fraser is in remission and back at Tullos primary school full time after missing his first day’s of school due to the cancer.
Fraser was photographed holding up his award and the image will be on display in posters in around 500 of the charity’s shops across Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales this spring.
His mum, Louise, said: “Fraser is like a completely different child now.”
Cancer Research UK spokeswoman for Scotland, Lisa Adams, said: “A cancer diagnosis is heart breaking at any age but it can be particularly devastating for youngsters.
“We’re honoured that Fraser is featuring in our campaign to help drive nominations for more inspirational children like him, so we can put them in the spotlight where they belong.”