A teenage cancer patient was presented with the Trinity College London Education Achievement Award at Fusion.

The Fusion Awards were held on Saturday July 6 at King George’s Hall, Blackburn attracting volunteers, charity workers and sporting talent from across the North West.

Sahil Usman, aged 13, fell ill in the summer of 2018 whilst on holiday. After returning to the UK he was diagnosed with leukaemia and spent months at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

The Queen Elizabeth School pupil returned home in the autumn but had to make regular visits to hospital for treatments.

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The award was presented by Lisa Donald of Trinity College London

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Speaking on stage Sahil said, "I want to dedicate this award to my mum who supported me through my hard times. I want to say thank you to my brother who has been there for me. I want to continue to help the community to the best of my ability."

At Christmas though he decided he wanted to give something back to those patients who would have to spend the festive period at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital.

His mum, Shanaz, said: “It had been a very stressful few months for him and for the family, but he was determined to do something nice for his fellow patients.”

Sahil decided to raise funds himself through sponsorship and collections and bought all the presents assisted by his cousin Maleeha. He even donated his own spending money to the final amount which helped him buy specially selected crisps, sweets and even a scarf.

He spent time wrapping the gifts and delivered them in time for Christmas.

Sahil said, “I just wanted to help other children at the hospital. I have seen other kids suffering and I thought about doing something and bringing them some joy.”

Sahil has remained off school for most of the year and only returned for a short period in May.

He is now assisting cancer charity McMillan in sharing his own experiences with other young people.