AN inspirational three-year-old from Aberystwyth, who was diagnosed with leukaemia earlier this year, is launching an awards scheme that recognises the courage of children with cancer.

The Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens Star Awards, in partnership with TK Maxx, celebrates the strength shown by young people who have been affected by cancer.

Rufus Palmer was nominated by his mother Rosie for his “incredible determination and resilience” after being diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in February.

Rosie, who was 10 weeks pregnant with her second child when Rufus was diagnosed, said: “We initially took Rufus to the doctor as he had a strange rash on his chest. I was worried he might have meningitis so wanted to get him checked out.”

Rufus, who loves Thomas the Tank Engine and anything train-related, was then taken to A&E where doctors discovered he had raised lymph nodes, a swollen tummy and unusual bruising.

After a number of hospital tests, Rosie, 26, and her husband, Tom, 31, were told the news no parent wants to hear.

“We were taken into a private room and the doctor said Rufus had leukaemia.

“It felt like I was in an actual nightmare. I kept thinking, this cannot be real. He was just a normal boy who went to nursery and was never poorly apart from the odd cough or cold.

“I now know what a broken heart feels like and felt physical pain from the shock.”

Rufus was rushed to intensive care and started chemotherapy straight away. He had a bone marrow aspiration – where they test cells in the marrow – and has finished four phases of frontline treatment. He is now having maintenance therapy which will last three years.

“He takes oral chemo every day and we are going to Cardiff every three months for his lumbar puncture,” said Rosie.

“Having Noah brought us back from dark times. I was lucky to have a smooth pregnancy and Rufus and Noah have such an incredible bond already.”

She added: “Because I was so grief-stricken and heartbroken after Rufus’ diagnosis, I really didn’t think the baby would survive. Emotionally I have become much stronger and we’re trying to be as positive as possible.”

Now, Rufus and his family are encouraging anyone who knows a young person who has been diagnosed with cancer to nominate them for the honour.

The awards are open to all under-18s who currently have cancer or have been treated for the disease in the last five years. All nominated children will receive a trophy, £50 TK Maxx gift card, T-shirt and certificate signed by a host of famous faces including Emma Thompson, Una Healy, Aston Merrygold and Peter and Emily Andre.

Since 2004, TK Maxx has raised over £32m for Cancer Research UK’s work through stock and cash donations.

To nominate a child for an award, visit cruk.org/kidsandteens