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Kids rugby team shave heads for player with cancer

Julie John Picture of Cardigan RFC Under 13s. Julie John
Cardigan under-13s rugby team all shaved their heads in an event for Louis on Sunday

A squad of under-13 rugby players shaved their heads to show support for a teammate who has been diagnosed with cancer.

Louis Hess-Cramp, 12, was diagnosed with a cancer in his femur at the beginning of October.

He injured his leg in a trampoline accident just over a month ago, but when a lesion was discovered during medical treatment, doctors arranged a biopsy and confirmed that he in fact had cancer.

As a member of Cardigan RFC since he was six years old, Louis said the team mates are his best mates and "have been for ages".

Julie John Picture of Iolo Adams Lewis nervous along side Gwion James. Julie John
All members of the rugby team braved the head shave for their best friend and fellow player

"The team are really getting behind me, it's great," he added.

Will Newland, one of Louis' teammates who took part in the event, said he felt proud to shave his head for Louis.

"I wanted him to know that he is not alone," he added.

Asked whether he had a message for Louis, Will said: "Stay strong, Louis. We're looking forward to having you back on the pitch as soon as possible".

Louis wasn’t able to attend the group event on Sunday due to chemotherapy, but he has since shaved his head alongside his dad, Ben.

Contributor photo Picture of Louis (right) and his dad Ben smiling at the camera after shaving their heads. Contributor photo
Louis' team mates made sure to involve him in the event over the phone as he was not well enough to attend

Speaking to Radio Wales Breakfast, Louis' mum Sherelle thanked the rugby team for their solidarity: "It's been overwhelming in the best way. There is so much practical help as well as emotional support. We have not been alone at all."

"There's a long way to go on this journey yet, we know that, but the rugby family are all with us and it's been so appreciated."

When asked how Louis is coping, Sherelle said he is "just amazing us everyday" and despite the physical toll chemotherapy is taking, Louis is still finding things to joke about in the irony of life.

And as a rugby boy through and through, getting back on the pitch remains on the forefront of Louis' mind, as his mum revealed the first question after finding out he had cancer was "when can I play rugby?".

For now, the team are looking ahead to more fundraising events, including bingo and an auction as they continue to support Louis and his family through their journey.