Ellis Lake, Pupil from Hadrian Park Primary School, located in Wallsend, For almost 6 years was like most children. He loved the outdoors and couldn’t wait for the next adventure.

Sadly, in October 2022 Elli’s world changed dramatically, he was diagnosed with Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD). In December he spent a week in Manchester Children’s Hospital where his stem cells were collected and transported to Milan for gene modification. A treatment that had only been approved by NICE in February 2022. In January 2023 Ellis relocated to Manchester and after a round of chemo Ellis had his own modified stem cells transplanted back into his body. As of March 8th he has been transferred back to the RVI, not before ringing the end of treatment bell. Now Ellis has a long process of intensive rehab by the team at the RVI. It is not going to be a quick process, but Ellis will begin the transition of integrating slowly back into our school community, with a long road ahead, but we can’t imagine for a second that this will stop Ellis.

The teachers here have decided to support ELLIS’ WISH and tackle climbing a mountain. The staff team have decided to climb Helvellyn for Ellis’ wish, we want to test ourselves and put ourselves through a challenge, to show our dedication and commitment to supporting our hero Ellis. On Saturday 2nd September 2023 HPPS will take on Helvellyn, which is the third-highest point both in England and in the Lake District. We want to show not all 'superheros wear capes!' our Ellis, is absolutely our HERO!