This young man is Dan. You may have seen Dan before as he has been one of the "stars" in the Candlelighters newsletter in the past. Dan has done more than most to help to raise money for Candlelighters and he has a very special reason why...
Four years ago Dan was diagnosed with a brain tumour. His treatment involved a life saving operation. Unfortunately that life saving operation whilst it has saved Dans' life has left him at present unable to walk unaided. As we saw on the day of the shoot as Dan took off at a great speed (scaring the life out of myself and his mum Caroline as he swerved very close to the cliff edge!) Dans' legs are not paralysed but he is experiencing problems with his balance. So Dan is aided by his trike.
Boy - can he move on that trike! He is also fearless it seems - his trike had one flat tyre which wouldn't inflate (depsite Andys best efforts) and so when he turned the trike automatically began to tip over. Dan wasn't in the slightest bit concerned but my heart was in my mouth more than once, I can tell you!
The prognosis for a full recovery for Dan I understand is good and last year Dan raised money for Candlelighters by walking around his local football pitch - aided only by one person at each side of him. His courage and stamina are amazing. We were priviledged to make Dans' acquaintance and even more honoured to photograph him. We're only posting a few photos of him here for mum Caroline to see before her official viewing, after which if she is in agreement, we may post a slideshow of the entire shoot. Well done Dan - see you again soon!
I'm Dan's Godmother, I'm so proud and privileged to have him in my life. He makes me whole and a better person. His zest for life and unfailing optimisium should be an example to all of us who think our lives are hard.
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