A nine-year-old boy undergoing treatment for leukaemia has raised over £10,000 for Children’s Cancer and Leukaemia Group (CCLG) by completing a sponsored walk.
When Arley Fenton, who was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (TALL) in July, turned nine years old on 22 September, he was asked what he wanted to do for his birthday.
Despite currently undergoing intensive chemotherapy, kind-hearted Arley said that he wanted to do a walk to raise vital funds to support other children with cancer, as well as raise awareness during last month’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (CCAM).
A few days after his birthday, he was completing the 5K route around his home village of Wadesmill in Hertfordshire.
His mum Claire said: “Arley really enjoyed the walk, he was chatting the whole way round.
“He didn't complain once and kept a smile on his face throughout.
“His sense of pride when he had finished was wonderful to see.
“His dad Chris and I are extremely proud of him.
“We were worried about his strength and energy levels on the day, especially as he had only had a transfusion a few days before.
“We suggested we take a short cut, but Arley was determined to do the whole loop and completed the 5km distance.
“Through this whole fundraising process, Arley has always put the needs of other children first.
“Arley is very much about helping children that are suffering.
“When you say to him that he’s a part of it, he says, ‘I know but it’s about all the children going through this’.
“That’s just our boy, he’s a very thoughtful person. Through the whole of this, he’s just always been asking about other children and how they are.
“His strength and courage are truly amazing.”
Arley said he was really pleased with his fundraising and is excited about the impact that it will have.
He added: “I am extremely proud of myself. I felt very tired after the walk, but it was definitely worth it.
“I really hope it will help with vital research to help find better medicine to help cure cancer and leukaemia.”
Ellie Wilkinson, of CCLG’s Fundraising team, said: “Arley is truly inspiring, and we want to say a huge well done to him for his efforts and a massive thank you for his incredible fundraising, which will make such a difference to other children with cancer.”