Oliver’s fight captures the hearts of the nation

Oliver Stephenson was diagnosed with neuroblastoma earlier this year, when tests confirmed a tumour on his kidney and found that the cancer had spread to his bone marrow, skull and eye sockets.

He began chemotherapy just two days later, and is currently undergoing treatment at Leeds General Infirmary with his dad, James, by his side.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic safety precautions, the pair are isolating in hospital, and have not seen mum, Laura, or little brother, Alfie, for over a month.

Laura said: “Oliver has been in and out of hospital since January, but he’s recovered every time.

“It’s been more daunting for me and Oliver’s dad, every time he has a hospital appointment it’s very scary.”

Oliver arrived in Leeds General Infirmary on April 27 for a new course of chemotherapy, and must remain in hospital until his immune system recovers from the treatment.

Next year, Laura and James hope he will be eligible for a new kind of treatment known as a Bivalent vaccine.

But the vaccine, which is still in trials, is only available in America, and the family face a bill of £230,000 if Oliver wishes to undergo the treatment.

The community has rallied around to support the family, raising more than £150,000 in four months.

And this weekend, the campaign received another boost, when Laura and James were invited to share their story on BBC Breakfast.

Laura thanked her friends and family for their hard work in fundraising, spreading awareness about Oliver’s condition.

Visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/oliverstephensonwillbeatthis to donate today.