Prenton mum of boy diagnosed with rare form of cancer urges Wirral women to enter Race for Life

Feb 17 2010 by Lorna Hughes, Bromborough and Bebington News

A MUM whose son was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer is urging Wirral women to enter this year’s Race for Life.

Ethan Richardson was just two when he developed a tumour in his stomach the size of an adult size eight shoe.

The team at Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool found he had clear cell sarcoma, and had only seen three tumours of the same type in 25 years.

He underwent chemotherapy, and in January 2008, had surgery to remove the tumour and a kidney.

His last chemotherapy treatment was in October 2008, but the next two years will be crucial.

Ethan has to have check-ups every three months but he has been able to return to school at St Paul’s Primary with big sister Lucy, 8.

Mum Helen, said the last few years had been “hellish” for her and Ethan’s dad John, who are also parents to toddler Jake.

She said: “There were times when we didn’t know if Ethan would survive. But we have had to keep going and trying to stay positive for Ethan and his brother and sister.

“Thanks to research, he is still here. I’m so grateful for the treatment that saved his life.”

Helen, 27, who works at Asda, took part in her first Race for Life at Birkenhead Park last summer.

She, Ethan and the family will be guests of honour at this year’s Wirral Race for Life, which takes place in the park on Sunday, July 4.

Helen said: “Success stories like Ethan’s would not be possible without the work of Cancer Research UK, which in turn relies on everyone who raises money through Race for Life.”

To enter, visit www.raceforlife.org or call 641 1111.