Harry Kane helps five-year-old boy celebrate end of brain cancer treatment
England's captain says he will play to keep Ben Williams smiling as the public wish the five-year-old well after radiotherapy.
Friday 6 July 2018 15:30, UK
A little boy undergoing treatment for a brain tumour has been given a World Cup trophy for bravery by NHS staff.
Five-year-old Ben Williams has just completed a six-week course of radiotherapy and was unable to walk and talk before starting treatment.
He was given his own football-themed ceremony by doctors and nurses in the radiology department at the Queen Hospital Birmingham for his courage.
Ben is seen walking into the radiology room surrounded by his family and NHS staff members wearing England flags in a viral clip.
The little boy was delighted when he unwrapped the replica of the World Cup trophy - amid growing optimism that the Three Lions could triumph in the tournament.
England captain Harry Kane called Ben "an inspiration" on Twitter.
"Hi Ben, I've seen your video and you are an inspiration. Carry on fighting and we'll do everything we can on Saturday to keep a smile on your face! #BensWorldCup," he wrote.
England's official Twitter account retweeted the post.
Rio Ferdinand replied to the video of Ben with: "Love this #WorldCup2018Russia".
Football fans and the general public joined them in wishing Ben a speedy recovery.
Darren Richardson wrote: "Unbelievable keep up the great work you are doing for all these very Brave and courageous kids."
Jamie Clarke added: "Such a small gesture can have such a massive impact [sic] good luck Ben".
Liam Herbert, a specialist paediatric radiographer at the hospital treating Ben, had appealed to the England team to congratulate the youngster.
"Ben has just completed his radiotherapy for a brain tumour, he was unable to walk and talk before his treatment but a week ago he asked for the World Cup, so we delivered," he had tweeted.
"@England and @HKane can you do the same?"
Sam Williams, Ben's father, told The Independent: "Six weeks ago, Ben couldn't talk or walk but we've essentially seen our little boy come back to us in the last few week.
"For all that the many amazing people have done for him across the NHS, we will never be able to express how thankful we are."