A COURAGEOUS BOY who got diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in his pelvis, hips, sacrum and a mass in his left kidney, is staying "happy and cheerful" despite going through the hardest moments of his life.

Layton Jackson is only three-years-old but was told he has neuroblastoma, a rare type of cancer which mostly affects babies and young children.

The little warrior, who lives in Harwich, started feeling unwell two weeks before Christmas and wouldn't move or get off the sofa.

Following a number of trips to the emergency unit, his condition was only getting worse.

His father Adam Wren, 35, of Harwich, said: " He still showed no signs of improvement and on top of this, was unable to walk.

"He was in pain, would not eat and was losing weight so we took him straight back to A&E.

"After lengthy discussions an MRI scan was carried out where it was found that he had worrying signs in his pelvis, hips and down his legs as well as a mass on his left kidney."

Layton was then transferred to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge for further blood and urine samples, as well as samples of his bone marrow and a biopsy of his kidney.

Adam added: " Watching our boy being constantly poked and prodded whilst in pain was indescribable.

"We were devastated and I broached the horrible question of treatment and possible outcomes and they advised the condition is treatable with a year’s worth of intense chemotherapy, radio therapy and operations.

"Layton would lose his hair and possibly require hearing aids after the year of treatment.

"They advised there is a 50 per cent success rate. "

After spending three weeks in hospital, Layton is now resting at home, but would need visits to Addenbrooke's hospital every 10 days.

His family is now appealing for help to cover the costs.

Adam added: "We are raising money to help with travel accommodation and toys.

"Once over anything that is not needed will be donated to the Lennox children cancer fund.

"Layton is so happy and cheerful even though he is going through this awful ordeal. "

If you want to help Layton visit bit.ly/3J1VsD9