Superhero Wilf fights cancer at just four years old

On November 8, the four-year-old, from Weymouth, woke up unable to walk and with no feeling his legs.

He was taken to Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester where he underwent multiple tests and scans to find the cause of the loss of feeling in his legs.

His parents Lucy and Will were given the news that no parent should ever hear, Wilf was diagnosed with cancer – a tumour on his spine.

He was rushed to Southampton General Hospital, where brave Wilf underwent a series of biopsies and began an intensive course of chemotherapy treatment.

Wilf is described as an 'adventurous boy who has nothing but love to give to everyone he meets.'

His family has set up a fundraiser on behalf of his parents, who would never ask for money themselves.

Due to the intense and lengthy treatment Wilf is now facing, both parents are now currently unable to continue working in their jobs as fitness instructors, as they need to be alongside Wilf.

Wilf Salter has began chemotherapy at just 4-years-old (Image: Image: Esther Sheppard)

The fundraiser, which had aimed to raise £5,000 for the family, has exceeded expectations and raised more than £15,000 so far.

Wilf’s uncle, Billy Hutchinson, gave an update on Wilf’s progress and gave thanks to the community which have rallied around him.

He said: “He has just had his last round of chemotherapy, he is still laughing and smiling through it, taking it like a little trooper.

“It’s really hard for the whole family, they are so close, the kids are always together

Speaking on Lucy’s behalf, Billy said: “The support has been incredibly humbling, it does just show when a child gets sick, it’s not just the family who are affected, the whole town feels it.

“The money means they now don’t have to work, they can be by Wilf’s side, it has been hugely positive.”

The community have rallied around Wilf and his family.

Family and friends of Wilf are encouraging local schools to allow children to dress up as their favourite superhero as part of a Superhero Day proposed for Wednesday, December 7.

The aim is to create photos from the schools to send to Wilf in a scrapbook, so that he can see all of his friends supporting him.

Family friend Esther Sheppard, has created an email address to collect photographs of the children’s efforts so that they can be shared with Wilf which is superheroesforwilf@gmail.com

Billy said: “We know not everyone can afford to help financially at the moment, we think the idea of a superhero day creates a great message.

“It’s not just about Wilf, although his face may be on it, it is for every child in the area fighting any kind of horrible disease.

“It is to say you are all superheroes."

Weymouth Manor are also holding a Christmas Raffle at their Residential Care Home on December 21, 2022 for residents and families.

They are looking for local businesses to contribute to the raffle with a donation, all proceeds will go to Wilf's family.

Esther Sheppard and Weymouth Care Home would like to thank the local businesses who have donated to the raffle so far.

Bibi's Boutique

Gladstone Family Jewellers

Stuart Wiltshire Glass

Glalley Bistro

Cactus Tea Room

The boat - café on the boat

If any other local businesses would like to donate please contact Esther Sheppard

The online fundraiser is ongoing and will stay open for future donations, with any money left over at the end of this journey being donated to Southampton Hospital.