Football-mad teenager gets ready to win his battle against cancer
TALENTED YOUNG FOOTBALLER’S PROMISING CAREER ON HOLD AS HE FACES CHEMOTHERAPY
Reporter THIS talented teenager’s dream of becoming a footballer has been put on hold as he tackles the biggest battle of his young life.
Football-mad Aldair Reis has had to give up training towards his goal after he was suddenly diagnosed with cancer.
The 14-year-old has missed out on potential scouting opportunities due to the lymphoma, but his positive attitude is turning him into a true star.
Proud mum Ellisa Fontes, of Elswick, Newcastle, said Aldair is looking forward to getting back on the pitch and fulfilling his dream once he recovers.
Ellisa, 42, said: “He loves to play football, he supports Barcelona and I’ve said if he’s a good enough player he can play with them.”
Despite missing out on games, Aldair is determined to get back to full fitness and impress football coaches in the future.
The Excelsior Academy pupil is also looking forward to going back to school full time after facing gruelling chemotherapy sessions.
In the meantime, his mum has given up her cleaning job to take care of him.
Speaking of the shock diagnosis, Ellisa said: “In the beginning it was too much, especially at this age – it’s not fair for him.
“Of course, it’s not easy for anyone, there are many kids in the hospital and it’s a big stress for the families.”
The family, from Elswick, are now waiting to get the results of a PET scan to decide on the next stage of treatment for Aldair.
Ellisa, who also has a 23-year-old daughter, added: “The doctors feel positive about the treatment and we believe them.
“After that scan result hopefully he can go back to playing football again.”
Aldair was one of 28 children recently nominated for a Braveheart award in recognition of the courage and strength they have shown in battling illness.
The Braveheart awards were presented at a special ceremony at St James’ Park by BBC Look North presenter Carol Malia, Newcastle United legend former captain Bob Moncur and Paralympic gold medal swimmer Josef Craig.
As part of this award, Aldair received a Barcelona football kit which he is now keen to put into action.