Brave Leo Barker who had a life-saving liver transplant during the pandemic led the charge against cancer at Pretty Muddy Edinburgh last weekend.
The 11 year old from Livingston, took to the stage to wave to the crowd at The Meadows on Sunday (June 19) ahead of his inspirational story being played on loud speakers.
Leo, who is in remission from cancer, has been chosen as the voice of Cancer Research UK Race for Life Pretty Muddy Kids events this year.
His story will be played at hundreds of the Pretty Muddy events across the UK this year.
It was a proud moment for Leo’s mum Laura (41), dad Stephen (44) and brother Cole (14).
Leo also received a medal after completing the 5k mud-splattered route with obstacles including an inflatable mud slide, space hoppers and a scramble net.
More than £78,756 was raised for Cancer Research UK at the event which more than 1000 people took part in.
Leo said: “In June 2020 when the world was in lockdown, I was diagnosed with cancer in my liver.
“My mum took me to the doctor because I had a lump in my stomach.
“Later that day the doctors in the hospital told me it was cancer. Everything happened so fast.
“I had chemotherapy and eventually needed a liver transplant. I was flown down by air ambulance to Birmingham Children’s Hospital where I had my transplant.
“I was dancing six days later. I am so happy to be feeling better and to have my strength back. I am so grateful to all the doctors and nurses and research teams that helped make me better.”
Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, is an inspiring series of 3k, 5k, 10k, Pretty Muddy and Pretty Muddy Kids events which raise millions of pounds every year to help beat cancer by funding crucial research.
Lisa Adams, Cancer Research UK’s spokeswoman in Scotland, said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part in Pretty Muddy Edinburgh.
“Life-saving research is being funded right now thanks to our supporters who fundraise.
“Now we’re asking everyone who took part to return the money they’re raised as soon as possible.
“Funds raised, whether it’s £10 or £100, will help scientists find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, helping save more lives.”
Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco, raises funds for world-class research to help beat 200 types of cancer.
Oonagh Turnbull, head of Health Campaigns at Tesco, said: “This will be our 21st year in partnership with Cancer Research UK and Race for Life and we hope this year can be the biggest yet.”
Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here
