Leeds United mad six-year-old defies odds to beat cancer in time for Premier League season

Scott Summers, from Cross Gates, was diagnosed with stage five bilatetal Nephroblastoma (aka Wilms Tumour) a rare childhood cancer back in late 2016 at just two years old.

His parents Sam and Scott said the news 'turned their world upside down' - with Scott bravely commencing chemotherapy just days after their wedding.

Scott's tumours were removed in a nine hour operation along with one of his kidneys and part of his remaining kidney.

Sam said chemotherapy was 'gruelling' for Scott and very difficult for his sister Alara - who is one year older - to cope with.

Scott was left confined to a wheel chair and medical buggy throughout treatment.

His chemotherapy ended in 2018 but celebrations were subdued after the family learnt he had two lifelong illnesses that produce cancerous cells - with surgeons warning of a relapse.

Scott suffers from Beckwidth Widemann Syndrome and Hemihypertrophy, two overgrowth genetic syndromes that means he has to have an extended tumour surveillance period due to the increased risk of relapse.

He has a curved spine, 1 leg longer than the other and also has hypermobility in his joints.

Despite all of the setbacks, proud mum Sam said Scott has 'defied all the odds' to learn to walk again and has since grown a passion for football and watching Leeds United with his dad.

Speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Sam said: "Scott makes us proud every day and he's inspired us to enjoy life to the full.

"He has hydrotherapy and physiotherapy at Leeds General infirmary and is determined to play football properly one day like his hero Paddy.

"Only now in 2020 we see light at the end of the long tunnel we've been in.

"Hospital treatment is easing and life is feeling normal again."

After spotting a social media post about Scott's story, Leeds United striker Patrick Bamford sent him a personal video message.

Sam said Scott would treasure the video forever and thanked the player.

She added: "He absolutely loves Patrick Bamford, and wants to be "a main striker" just like him when hes older.

"Scott couldn't believe Patrick has taken the time to send him a video he's watched it over and over and beams with excitement.

"He's really made his year.

"We would like to thank him from the bottom of or hearts for the touching video that means so much to Scott."

Scott's family are hoping to raise more awareness for childhood cancer.

Sam said: "Cancer is the number one cause of death by disease for children and more funding and awareness is desperately needed.

"September is "Go Gold" for childhood cancer awareness month and gives people the opportunity to speak about the horrific impact the disease has on people's lives."

"Scott's school friend recently lost her battle with cancer this year and our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time."

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Thank you

Laura Collins