Six-year-old Storm marked the end of his cancer treatment at the Leicester Royal Infirmary surrounded by his family – and some very special guests.
Storm rang the hospital’s end-of-treatment bell, a moment used to celebrate the completion of cancer care, with the surprise arrival of his favourite characters from KPop Demon Hunters, making the milestone even more memorable.
The brave youngster, from Leicester, has spent the past 16 months undergoing treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer. He also underwent surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital earlier this year to remove a tumour from his bladder.
Storm’s mum, Amy Smith, said she could not be prouder of her son.
“He has been so brave, and I am incredibly proud of him,” she said. “Going through all of this at such a young age has been so hard, but one of the things that really helped him cope was KPop Demon Hunters.
“They visited him throughout his chemotherapy and brought a smile to his face when nothing else could, so of course they had to be there to mark the end of his treatment.”
Storm first met the KPop Demon Hunters tribute group at one of their events at the Enchanted Tea Rooms in Leamington Spa, and they have supported him throughout his treatment journey ever since.
Now finished with treatment and continuing his recovery, Storm is enjoying being back at school and spending time with friends. His family are also planning a well-earned holiday to Turkey.
Amy added: “It was such a lovely day celebrating Storm and just how far he has come. His face absolutely lit up when he saw his friends and family all together.”
Gemma Mackay, Oncology Nurse Specialist on Ward 27 at Leicester Royal Infirmary, has supported Storm throughout his treatment.
She said: “Storm has shown incredible courage throughout his treatment. Seeing him ring the end-of-treatment bell was a wonderful moment for everyone who has cared for him, and we wish him and his family all the very best for the future.”