Teenager who overcame major surgery and volunteers his time for the community wins award

A teenager who had part of his large bowel removed to form a stoma aged nine has been recognised with an award after overcoming a series of health complications and rising above adversity.

Cameron Wood became seriously ill when he was diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease at the height of the Covid pandemic and lockdown in the summer of 2020.

“Being in hospital was horrible,” Cameron said. “I was happy the first week I was in there, but by the second week my mood had completely changed because I couldn’t see anyone and I didn’t know what to do.”

Initially diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, doctors tried various medications to relieve daily abdominal pains and other symptoms, with little success.

Following weeks of scans, blood tests and time spent in hospital, Cameron required major surgery to remove part of his large bowel and form a permanent stoma, which could have proved life-threatening if left untreated.

After being nominated by mum Tanya, Cameron has been awarded this year’s Rising Above Adversity Award, which recognises a young person who, despite their background or upbringing, is an inspiration to others. 

The award forms part of the Live Our Best Live Awards – launched by Nottinghamshire Police in 2021 to shine a light on the inspiring work of young people across the county.

The life-changing surgery caused considerable diet and lifestyle changes for Cameron, who has been supported throughout by his dedicated mum.

Tanya Wood said:

“As soon as he had the surgery it was a great relief, I felt like I could breathe again.

“Cameron is a little comedian. He’s always trying to make everyone laugh if anyone’s feeling down. Even though he’s had his own illnesses to deal with, he’ll still make sure he’s the first person there to try and cheer that person up.

“I’ve had to keep the award a secret for such a long time. For me as a mum, to see what he went through and to now see him get an award at the end – it’s a really proud moment for me.”

Now, four years on, Cameron is a confident young man who is proud to say he has a stoma that saved his life.

The enthusiastic 13-year-old has turned his focus to improving the community where he lives through gardening projects where Cameron takes responsibility for planting fresh trees, shrubs and flowers across the seasons whilst learning new skills and helping to keep the area clean and tidy.

Despite doing so much for the community, Cameron modestly said:

“It’s just relaxing. It’s something to do and I enjoy the digging.”