How persistent leg pain led to cancer diagnosis for 10-year-old Leo
An East Auckland boy is facing an intensive battle with a rare form of cancer after persistent pain in his leg led to a devastating diagnosis.
Maraetai Beach School student Leo, 10, had been undergoing physiotherapy when an X-ray was recommended to determine the cause of the pain during the April school holidays.
The scan revealed the boy had BCOR sarcoma, a rare small round-cell cancer.
Early symptoms of the sarcoma, which most commonly develops in the bones, include persistent pain and swelling.
Leo has since started an intensive treatment programme involving 14 rounds of chemotherapy and a course of radiation therapy, with the possibility of surgery.
Maraetai Beach School principal Lou Reddy said Leo was a valued member of the local community who was admired for his courage.
“Leo is a wonderful young man who embodies kindness, resilience and determination.
“He is a valued member of our school whānau, and our hearts are with him and his family as they navigate this incredibly difficult journey.”
Leo is known locally as the goalkeeper for Beachlands Maraetai AFC and for being a passionate Auckland FC supporter and a loyal friend.
A football tournament is being held this weekend to raise money to support Leo during his ongoing treatment. Photo / BMAFC
The football club has organised a charity tournament for Sunday, August 2, with all proceeds going to Leo and his mother, Cushla.
“We invite our wider community to get behind this fundraiser and show Leo that he has an entire community standing beside him every step of the way,” Reddy said.
The event, to be held at Te Puru Community Centre, is one of several fundraising initiatives bringing the Pōhutukawa Coast together to support the boy.
Organisers are putting on a sausage sizzle, bake sale and lolly raffles as part of the sporting event.
In a Facebook post, Beachlands Maraetai Association Football Club encouraged people to show up.
“Whether you’re participating, volunteering, or just stopping by to support, we’d love to see as many of our football whānau and local community there as possible to support Leo and his family.”
A Givealittle page set up to help cover Leo’s treatment costs and ease the financial burden on his family has already raised more than $23,000.
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