An eleven-year-old from Harpenden with an inoperable brain tumour said a charity activity camp has "transformed" his life.
Adam Sharp was diagnosed with the tumour when he was four and has since had brain surgery four times - twice for biopsies, one failed resection and one to fit a shunt.
He also had almost two years of chemotherapy and now has a left sided hemiplegia and visual impairment, both of which affect his mobility and independence.
For the past four years, Adam has attended OverTheWall - a camp for children with serious illnesses funded by SeriousFun Children’s Network.
Adam’s mum Jos Sharp said: "Adam is a cheerful, outgoing boy whose illness and disabilities have not affected his self esteem or confidence.
"The experience at the camp has completely transformed him, restoring a sense of possibility in himself and his family, something Adam now enjoys in his everyday life.
"Because of camp, Adam is better able to cope with challenges, and has a renewed sense of confidence and independence."
Adam, who lives in Wood End, is a pupil at Roundwood Park School. His tumour is benign, and he is scanned regularly to monitor any re-growth. He is under the care of ten different specialists and has to have regular injections.
Jo, who is also a trustee of the camp, added: "Adam has been to camp twice now and he loves being with children like him - where all the kids are ‘different’ and everyone is accepted.
"He tries every activity and is encouraged to do as much as he can in a safe and supportive way. He adores the singing and chatting and mucking about - it gives him a chance to just be a kid - without me or his helper at school hovering over him.
"Adam starts looking forward to camp from the day he returns from the last one - I really hope he can attend for many years to come."
Last month the charity held their annual SeriousFun Gala in London, which raised much needed funds for the charity.
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