London boy Saif Mubarak nominated for BBC Young Hero Award after cancer battle
The 10-year-old, who lost his leg and father during treatment, now helps others facing similar challenges
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A 10-year-old boy from London has been nominated for the BBC Make a Difference Young Hero Award after surviving bone cancer, undergoing an above-knee amputation, and supporting others through similar struggles. Saif Mubarak was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at age five and has since adapted to life with a prosthetic leg, continuing to run and inspire peers.
Diagnosis and treatment
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Saif first experienced leg pain and limping at age five. After being admitted to three different hospitals, he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a form of bone cancer. The treatment required an above-knee amputation when he was six years old, followed by chemotherapy. Saif described the disease as a condition that affects the bones and can occur anywhere in the body.
Jonathan Perera, the orthopaedic oncology surgeon who treated Saif, told the BBC that the boy coped exceptionally well with his treatment. Perera said Saif now walks or runs without limitations, more than five years after his initial diagnosis. The surgeon praised Saif’s determination and called him a "shining star" who deserves the award nomination.
Recovery and resilience
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Saif received his prosthetic leg at age six and joined a running club to learn how to use it effectively. Mike Antoniades, the performance and rehabilitation director at the Movement & Running School, said Saif attends sessions twice a week. Antoniades explained that the initial focus was on teaching Saif to walk without crutches and develop his gross motor skills. He noted that Saif’s strong personality and positive attitude helped him adapt quickly.
I had to be really brave and push through it. I’ve been through a hard time and I’d like to think that I could help other people that was in my situation.
Saif Mubarak, 10
Saif’s recovery was further complicated by the death of his father during his treatment. Despite this additional loss, Saif said he remained determined to push through and support others facing similar challenges. He expressed feeling "great and excellent" about his nomination, adding that it made him feel confident and humble.
The BBC Make a Difference Awards
The BBC Make a Difference Awards recognise individuals and groups who have made a positive impact in their communities. Saif has been nominated in the Young Hero category, which is open to individuals or groups under the age of 16. Other categories include the Volunteer Award, Community Group Award, Fundraiser Award, Great Neighbour Award, Active Award, Environmental Award, and Animal Award.
Public voting for the awards is open until 12 September 2024. The winners will be announced at a ceremony later this year. Saif’s nomination highlights his efforts to inspire others despite the personal challenges he has faced.
What happens next
The BBC will announce the winners of the Make a Difference Awards after the public voting period closes on 12 September 2024. Saif’s nomination has already drawn attention to his story, and his continued involvement in supporting others through his experiences remains a focus for his community.
Questions this report answers
+What is Saif Mubarak nominated for?
Saif Mubarak, 10, has been nominated for the BBC Make a Difference Young Hero Award. The nomination recognises his resilience after surviving bone cancer, undergoing amputation, and supporting others facing similar challenges despite personal loss.
+How did Saif Mubarak cope with his treatment?
Saif underwent an above-knee amputation at age six and received chemotherapy. His surgeon, Jonathan Perera, said Saif coped exceptionally well and now walks or runs without limitations. He also attends a running club to improve his mobility.
+When will the BBC Make a Difference Awards winners be announced?
The winners of the BBC Make a Difference Awards will be announced after the public voting period closes on 12 September 2024. Saif Mubarak is among the nominees in the Young Hero category for his inspiring story.
+What challenges has Saif Mubarak faced?
Saif was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at age five, underwent amputation at six, and lost his father during recovery. Despite these challenges, he has adapted to life with a prosthetic leg and continues to support others through similar experiences.
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