Brave teenager with leukaemia returns to school for first time

Aidan Hogg, 15, of Arrow Crescent, Musselburgh, has been mainly bed-bound at Edinburgh’s Royal Hospital for Children and Young People (RHCYP) since he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in March.

Aidan is now making weekly visits to his family home as he continues to receive intense physiotherapy in hospital.

His mum, Emma Davidson, said the Preston Lodge High School pupil was delighted to return to his high school for the first time in eight months for a short visit.

The teenager dropped by for 20 minutes to visit staff members, who his mum said “he was desperate to see and thank for all their support”.

Staff and students at the high school recently banded together to raise funds for Aidan’s Magical Gifts – a project set up by the youngster to provide Christmas gifts for over 100 children at RHCYP.

Following a dress down day at the school in October, a representative was proud to announce that £900 had been raised for the cause, with a generous donation of £100 from a friend of the school bringing the total amount to £1,000.

Julia Robertson, deputy headteacher, said: “With those funds we are buying an advent door from the Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, who organise fun things for children and young people in hospital, and 50 Amazon gift cards for the gift bags.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Aidan back into school soon too!”

Recently, Aidan underwent an important milestone in his recovery when he had his port removed.

Installed 35 weeks ago, the port administered chemotherapy, fluids, antibiotics, and food when the teenager was too unwell to eat.

Emma added: “So many times we have seen him hooked up to different things through that port.

“I know it’s been amazing for the staff to get the things he needs into his body the fastest way but I can’t say I will be sad to see it go.

“I was so nervous for the surgery but also happy for him and for us all.”