A BROMSGROVE teenager whose leukaemia has inspired hundreds to sign up to the stem cell register has been flooded with gifts and cards as he celebrated his 17th birthday.
Leo Sproson celebrated his birthday on Wednesday (March 25) surrounded by his loved ones.
After months of looking for a match, Leo received a stem cell transplant last month and has also been undergoing chemotherapy.
It has already been a good month for Leo, who originally thought he might not be out of the hospital in time for his birthday.
To help make Leo’s birthday extra special, his family asked those following his journey to send him a card for his 17th birthday.
So far, Leo has received around 35 cards and gifts so far to his PO Box, with more coming through daily.
Leo also had a post-transplant meeting on his birthday.
His mum, Jenna told the Standard: “Leo, being a typical teenager, had a lie in on his birthday.
“He’s had some new trainers, so he’s happy, and he has been eating sweets.
”He was feeling good.
“Thank you so much for all the cards and gifts received.
“We appreciate them so much, and they really do cheer Leo up.
“Leo’s PO Box is available until May to send birthday cards, letters and cards of well wishes.”
Jenna has been so amazed by Leo’s response to his potentially life-threatening illness that she has nominated him for a Pride of Britain award in the Child or Teenager of Courage Award category.
Staff at the Standard have also nominated Leo for the award and have joined a rallying call for others to nominate.
Leo has allowed his story to be shared and heard through his Facebook page ‘Leo’s Army’ in a bid to get other people to join the DKMS stem cell donor register.
His family held a registration day in November and, in total, 718 people signed up to the stem cell register on the day, with many more registering for online kits.
To send a birthday card or gift to Leo, address it to Leo’s Army, PO BOX 18935, Bromsgrove, B60 9LF.
Visit: data.reachplc.com/242643338335962 to nominate Leo for the Pride of Britain award.
