Joy as Charlie Hook's latest tests results clear

THE mother of a young boy who underwent successful treatment for cancer has told of her joy after doctors confirmed his latest test results are clear.

Charlie Hook, 6, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, an aggressive form of childhood cancer, on his fifth birthday in January last year.

He had treatment in Leeds and is progressing well, but has regular check-ups as he faces an 80 per cent chance of relapse.

Now, doctors in Leeds say Charlie's latest urine test, which can detect tumour activity, is clear.

Charlie's mother Nicola, 33, said: "They are really pleased with him. The doctor sat there with a big smile on his face and said everything is looking good.

"Every time I walk in to that room, my mouth dries up.

"It doesn't matter what they are telling me, I'm always a nervous wreck.

"I sit there with my fingers and arms crossed.

"This is the best things can be for us right now until we get the official all-clear in five years."

Charlie, of west Hull, is receiving test results every eight weeks and will have his next check-up on October 30.

His family launched the £300,000 Charlie Hook Appeal to take him to the US for treatment if he relapses and almost £140,000 has been raised so far.

Nicola said although Charlie's latest test results are clear, it is vital to keep supporting the appeal.

She said: "We are living life in eight-week blocks and can't really plan any further ahead than that at this moment in time.

"We can't afford to be laid-back about it. That is absolutely not an option.

"Another child treated at Leeds General Infirmary relapsed last week.

"It's awful and this is why we live day by day, week by week.

"I'm very aware and constantly reminded things can change at any moment."

Charlie returned to Bricknell Primary School in Bricknell Avenue, west Hull, yesterday, and Nicola said he could not wait to be with his friends.

The family, including Charlie's siblings Molly, 5, and Archie, 17 months, have recently enjoyed trips to Florida, Malta and the Lake District.

Nicola said: "Charlie thoroughly enjoyed his school holiday.

"But he has been really excited to get back to school.

"At 7am yesterday morning, he came trotting out of his bedroom with his eyes still shut and he wanted to get his uniform on. This is his first proper day back with everyone else at the start of the school year.

"He went into school without any bother and was looking forward to seeing his friends."

Various events are planned across Hull and the East Riding to raise money for the Charlie Hook Appeal in the coming days, weeks and months.

Charlie's aunt Claire Pearson, uncle Dominic Hook and friend Lucy Lydon have organised Hookstock to help add to the amount raised so far.

It will take place at the Goodfellowship pub in Cottingham Road, Hull, from 7pm on Friday. Admission costs £5 per person on the door.

Bands and singers, including Dominic and Compass, will take to the stage, while a sweet stall, tarot card reader, clairvoyant and a temporary tattoo artist will also be part of the event.

A raffle of luxury hampers will also be held.

Claire, 34, of west Hull, said: "We can't wait.

"It will be a real festival-style, laidback, fabulous evening.

"We are going to decorate the place with bunting and have a lot of stalls outside if the weather holds up."