A BASINGSTOKE family whose son underwent treatment after cancer diagnosis in 2014 are calling for help for the charity that came to their aid.

William Cater was diagnosed with a brain tumour aged just five years old after being referred for an MRI scan due to deteriorating vision.

Emma, William’s mum, said: “We were very shocked, Will’s tumour was found out of the blue, even the specialists didn’t expect to find a tumour.”

The family then received help from cancer charity for children and young people, CLIC Sargent, after he started needing to go to chemotherapy treatment at Southampton Hospital.

William had 14 rounds of treatment at the hospital, and during this time, Emma said that he struggled with sickness, leg pain, fatigue, mouth sores and complete hair loss.

During this difficult time, the family received support from a CLIC Sargent social worker who provided practical, emotional and financial support.

Emma said: “Tricia helped with Will’s DLA [Disability Living Allowance] application and appeal and arranging a letter to help Will on days out giving him disabled access which was so important to him and us.”

Now, the Cater family are keen to give back to the charity by urging people to get behind World Cancer Day today with supporters able to donate £2 to get a CLIC Sargent Band against Cancer wristband available in three collectable colours.

Emma said: “I’m really proud to wear my Band Against Cancer wristband because CLIC Sargent made such a difference to me and my family. Buying a band and shouting about this campaign is such an easy way to make sure you can help other families. I hope everyone in Basingstoke gets behind this.”

Liz Blunt, CLIC Sargent fundraising and engagement manager for Hampshire, said: “Hearing the word ‘cancer’ can leave a lot of friends, family and loved ones, not knowing what to say, or do, and feeling helpless. Donating and getting your Band Against Cancer wristband is a simple way to show your support for CLIC Sargent and families who have had their lives turned upside down.”

The wristbands are available in JD Wetherspoon pubs and Morrisons stores. They are also available at select H Samuel and Ernest Jones stores.

For more information, go to clicsargent.org.uk/WorldCancerDay.