Heartbreaking news from Hereford: 13-year-old Frank Cleal tragically passed away due to osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. What started as a mild limp, thought to be a rugby-related injury, turned out to be much more severe. His mum, Emma Cleal, is urging parents to be vigilant about unexplained symptoms in their kids.
Emma described how Frank, once an active and healthy boy, had a fall during rugby which seemed the obvious cause of the limp. Initially diagnosed as a hamstring strain, further medical investigations revealed a tumour in his right femur. Despite months of intensive chemotherapy and surgeries, the cancer spread, and doctors deemed it terminal by February 2021. Emma’s heartfelt plea to parents is simple yet crucial: if something feels off, trust your instincts and consult a doctor. Awareness of childhood cancer symptoms can be life-saving.
To honour Frank’s memory and assist other families facing similar challenges, the Cleal family has set up the ‘Be More Frank’ fund, which has raised over £300,000 for the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust. This fund supports children and families across several counties, offering grants to help with the financial burden of cancer treatment.
Emma shared: “When Frank was ill, I spent months in the hospital with him. The costs for food, transport, and accommodation can be overwhelming. We want to ensure other families aren’t distracted by these worries during such trying times.” The family continues to support the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust’s ‘You Know Them Best’ campaign to raise public awareness about childhood cancer signs.
Frank may have left us, but his legacy continues to make a difference. Let’s spread the message and keep our little ones safe. 💛 #BeMoreFrank #ChildhoodCancerAwareness