Brave little Luka Bailey won a race at his last sports day- in the year he was been battling a debilitating illness.
The 11-year-old was suddenly struck down by Sydenham’s Chorea – also known as St Vitus Dance – which results in rapid uncoordinated jerking movements affecting the face, hands and feet.
WATCH- Luke wins the obstacle race 🙂
It was diagnosed after he was rushed to hospital in May and underwent a barrage of medical tests. It can take months to recover and requires long term treatment with antibiotics.
But after four weeks off school in his final year at St David’s RC Primary School in Cwmbran he was determined not to miss his last sports day.
And he got a rousing cheer from his classmates when he battled through to win the obstacle race.
His mother Clare, said: “ It was such a shock when this suddenly struck him down. It was very scary and we rushed him straight to the hospital.
“He had to undergo a lot of tests before this was finally diagnosed.
“But he is very brave and very determined. He was absolutely positive that he wanted to make it to sports day and take part with his friends.
“Everyone was overjoyed when he won his race. The school, the teaching staff and all of his friends have been incredibly supportive. They have all checked up on him and have been a fabulous help.”
Thanks for the support
“I want to say a huge thank you Mrs Weightman (Luka’s headteacher) Mrs Morgan, Mrs Rogers and Mrs Robinson (Yr 6 teachers) for their support and kindness throughout.
“I’d like to thank Miss Williams (Luka’s yr 5 teacher) for checking most days how he was doing, along with Mrs Webber.
“Thanks to Mrs Gunter for Luka’s big hug, he loved this.
“A huge thank you also to the year 2 mums for all their help with Oliver (Luka’s younger brother) and constantly checking up on Luka. Their kindness and support has meant the world to us.”
Luka’s wonderful friends
“Most importantly all of Luka’s wonderful friends in year 6 for their love, friendship and kindness, you are all incredible children.
“Luka is due to start his senior school, St Alban’s, in September and we are all hoping that he will be well enough to do that.
“Given his fighting spirit he will give it all he has got.”