A real life superhero has rung the bell after beating cancer.
Ace Ward has overcome a three and a half year battle with a rare form of leukaemia.
The brave eight-year-old from Irvine has withstood hours of daily gruelling treatment, with days in a hospital bed becoming the norm.
During that time the courageous school boy has shown tremendous spirit and even helped raise thousands for the specialist child cancer unit that treated him along with Ayrshire respite charity Whiteleys Retreat and other vital causes.
On Friday, June 23 he officially declared himself cancer free as he celebrated in front of family and friends, including brother Harrison, 12, and sister Hallie, 11.
It marked an emotional end to a cancer fight that started when Ace was only five.
Ace went from playing football one day to being rushed to hospital the next with medics revealing he had B-Cell Acute Lymphobastic Leukaemia.
Mum Vicky Ward, 37, says he and dad Brian Ward, 41, couldn’t be more proud of their son.
Vicky told Ayrshire Live: “Ace absolutely deserves this moment after three and a half years of bravely fighting.
“He’s been absolutely amazing. He’s never once complained or moaned, he always just got on with it. He’s an absolute champion.
“This has been the first week he’s not had any chemo or anything and he can’t quite believe it.
“He still keeps asking if he’s got medicine to take. It’s strange that all he’s known is having hospital appointments and treatment.
“He was diagnosed when he was five he’s nearly nine now. He doesn’t know life without cancer, but hopefully he will realise soon.”
A huge party was held down at Marress Sports Club where friends and family gathered to celebrate.
A torrential downpour meant that there was no bouncy castles at the bash.
But it wasn’t enough to dampen anyone’s spirits as Super-Ace rung the bell in front of a huge cheer.
Family had travelled up from England to watch the emotional moment.
The night kicked off an incredible weekend for Ace.
The cancer-free youngster partied at Irvine’s Bounce Station on the Saturday with his cousins before taking a sea dip at the beach.
Ace was then given a school day to remember on Monday as he rung the bell in front of all his classmates and teachers.
St Mark’s Primary pulled out all the stops for him as they held a superhero day with teachers dressing up and Ace wearing his own costume.
Vicky said: “St Mark’s have been brilliant with us right from when he was diagnosed.
“Ace absolutely loved seeing everyone dress up. The full school took part it was really nice.”
The family are now looking forward to their first holiday in years as they plan a trip to Turkey.
Vicky has paid a heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported Ace.
She added: “We would just like to thank all family and friends for travelling to see him, also for all the support over the years, to his school for everything they have done to support him."
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