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Ashford teenager Oliver Ross in cancer fight

The family and friends of a young man fighting cancer have appealed to the public to help him win his battle.

Fifteen-year-old Oliver Ross from Ashford has been undergoing treatment after doctors found a brain tumour in July.

Oliver Ross is fighting against cancer
Oliver Ross is fighting against cancer

The Norton Knatchbull pupil and his family found out about his diagnosis after he became ill on July 14.

He had a 10 hour urgent operation to reduce the size of the tumour, with 75% of it removed successfully.

However, after biopsies were done on the mass, it was discovered to be high grade, aggressive and incurable.

Oliver's stepfather Kevin Duffield said that the shocking news had hit the family hard, but that his son's bravery was inspiring.

"I'm in awe of him really, he's the same happy-go-lucky, brave guy he has always been, we are all so proud."

Oliver goes to the Norton Knatchbull school in Ashford
Oliver goes to the Norton Knatchbull school in Ashford

The teenager is going through a six-week chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment, however the family have been told that he needs overseas treatment to have the best chance of survival.

Family friend Zoe Hopkins, who set up a fundraiser for the family, said: "Recently we have discovered that Germany, the USA and Japan have made major advances in Immunotherapy vaccines for brain tumours and cancer.

"The idea is that these vaccines help the immune system to recognise and attack those particular cells preventing them from growing back.

"Unfortunately, they are not yet available on the NHS or even in the UK. This advanced treatment is incredibly expensive and on top of treatment costs, would require the family to travel to Germany once a month for up to two years.

"It is a huge amount of money for one family to find."

"I think it shows that everyone can relate to it..."

The fundraiser is currently set at £100,000, however Mr Ross believes that the first target is closer to £40,000.

He said that the £10,000 already raised by Friday was "absolutely incredible".

"We are hoping to raise as much as possible, but at least £40,000 to start," he explained.

"The reception to the fundaiser has been amazing, I think it shows that everyone can relate to it; for such a young man and it coming out of the blue."

Oliver's mother, Claire Ross-Duffield, said that she was also hoping to get a supportive message from some of her son's heroes; YouTuber group the Sidemen.

Oliver's mum Claire says he is a fan of YouTube stars the Sidemen
Oliver's mum Claire says he is a fan of YouTube stars the Sidemen

"He is a massive fan of the Sidemen he wears all their merchandise," she explained

"I'm really hoping to get their signatures, or a supportive message for him, it would just mean the world."

To donate to Oliver's fundraiser, click here.

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