Telford school boy with cancer stays positive to raise £12,000
Youngster Ben Corfield has endured a year of gruelling treatment after being diagnosed with cancer.
He has had to go through blood transfusions, chemotherapy, steroids, injections and endless other hospital procedures.
But that hasn't stopped the eight-year-old raising more than £12,000 for charity.
Ben, from Little Wenlock, Telford, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in February.
But, far from slowing him down, the news made Ben more determined to raise funds for sick children. From this, the Ben Corfield Football Fund was set up.
The fund – which has 'Be strong, have fun and keep smiling' as its motto – was inspired by Ben's love of football, with the youngster having played for Admaston Juniors Football Club and for AFC Telford Utd.
As well as holding charity football matches, people have got involved by holding coffee mornings and even taking part in marathons.
And so far, more than £12,000 has been raised for various charities.
Louise Corfield, Ben's mother, said she is very proud of her son, who always has a smile on his face.
The 44-year-old said: "He is such an amazing little boy, considering what he has gone through. He has just put such a positive spin on what has happened to him, and it's such an inspiration for many people. The school he goes to, Coalbrookdale and Ironbridge Church of England Primary School, have also been incredibly supportive.
"The pupils have also been fantastic and they have helped Ben so much. His friends have really looked out for him and we are so grateful for that. His older brothers, Joel and Dan, have also been so helpful, along with his dad Jason."
Since he was diagnosed Ben has been going through chemotherapy at Birmingham Children's Hospital.
Despite his treatment he has not missed a day of school when he's meant to be there.
Mrs Corfield added: "As a family we are just incredibly proud of him. We would also like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped us raise this money in less than a year."
For more information about Ben's fund visit www.thebencorfieldfootballfund.co.uk
