A young Perth girl diagnosed with a rare form of cancer has shown off her incredible dance skills at a UK awards ceremony.
Lily Douglas, 10, has just returned from a 10-week trip to Florida where she received proton beam therapy in an attempt to eradicate Ewing’s Sarcoma.
Her latest scans have revealed she is “cancer free” – with the treatment in the states aimed at minimising any damage to her heart and lungs.
And young Lily took centre-stage as she performed a poignant ballet sequence at the Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens Star Awards party in London on Tuesday.
Despite her young age, she has already garnered 90 trophies and 200 medals in ballet, tap, and street and modern dance.
The event, which had a talent show theme, paid tribute to the “strength” of youngsters living with cancer.
Lily said: “I just love dancing. Today has been amazing, a really good experience. When I got up to dance on stage, I was so happy. It was just amazing, it felt like a dream come true.
“I’ve got my glitter on, I’ve been doing scientist stuff and street dancing. I’ve just loved it.”
After being diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in April 2017 she underwent surgery to remove a shoulder blade.
She has undergone 14 rounds of chemotherapy, nine operations and fought off seven infections.
Though she still has several small operations scheduled, she is due to return to school in August.
While in the states, she was given a starring role ahead of an American football game and made an appearance on TV.
Lily’s mum Jane Douglas said: “I’m blown away by Lily’s courage and strength.
“After 409 days of treatment she’s done it. Lily has made broken look beautiful and strong look invincible. I couldn’t be prouder.
“She has hit this head on with the most positive attitude. I wish I was half as brave as her. We take one day at a time and appreciate every minute of that day.”
Lily was among 20 youngsters from across the UK to receive VIP treatment for showing “strength and courage” since being diagnosed.
A personalised Walk of Fame featuring their names inside stars was set up, while there were a number of fund events taking place including a performance from CBeebies presenter Cat Sandion.
Cancer Research UK’s kids and teens spokeswoman for Scotland, Lisa Adams, said: “It is an absolute privilege to be able to recognise the strength of youngsters like Lily who have been through so much at such a young age.
“Lily is a true ‘star’. Cancer can have a major impact on children and young people, so it was fantastic to see Lily’s smile light up as she took part in our talent show-themed party.
“Our mission is to save the lives of more children and young people diagnosed with cancer in Scotland and across the UK, and to reduce side effects caused by treatment, by finding new, better and kinder treatments.
“It was a total joy to meet Lily and her mum – we hope they’ve had a fantastic time and created some amazing memories together.”
The Cancer Research UK Kids and Teens Star Awards raise vital funds for research across the UK.
Every child and young person nominated receives a trophy, a t-shirt, a certificate signed by celebrities and a £50 TK Maxx voucher.
