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A star is born

Miles Skinner
21/12/2004

AFTER spending the last the Christmases in hospital with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, a Middleton 13-year-old has been saluted by Cancer Research UK.

Craig Lee, a pupil at Middleton Technology School who was diagnosed with the disease just days before his ninth Christmas, was praised as a "little star" by the charity for his courage.

Craig is currently in remission, but has developed acute liver disease following his chemo therapy treatment. His mother, Carolyn Ray, said: "Craig has been so brave. He is a little star, a big miracle and an inspiration to everyone."

A passionate Oldham Athletic fan, Craig has younger brother Joseph, aged four and a seven-year-old sister Georgina at the family's Wince Road home in Alkrington. He has had to spend a hat trick of Christmases in Royal Manchester Children's Hospital in Pendlebury.

Thousands of pounds have been raised by Craig's efforts for the hospital which became his home for so many years. He was also thrilled to carry the Commonwealth Games baton in Summer 2002.

Cancer Research UK's North West spokesman Jane Bullock said: "Craig has had to go through a tremendous amount over the past few years, but has impressed everyone with his positive attitude."

She added: "His courage deserves recognition at this special time of year."

Craig will receive a goodie bag including a Little Star certificate signed by Sam Aston, who plays Chesney Brown in Coronation Street; ex-Westlife singer Brian McFadden; and pop groups Misteeq and Busted.