A woman has written a book about a boy from Cold Ash who died from a brain tumour 17 years ago.
Willie Foster-Horton was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour two weeks before his third birthday.
Sue Smith with her book
He later died aged seven following many operations, chemotherapy and intense radiotherapy.
But now his family, friends and former teachers have remembered the joy he brought to their lives.
Susie Smith, who met Willie’s mother and sister at a chance meeting in a park in 2003, presented a copy of her book My Wings, written about Willie’s life, to St Mark’s School in Cold Ash, which Willie attended for three years.
The story gives an insight into how many people became involved in Willie’s life over the years.
Sue Smith with her book with Staff from Primary School, friends and family
Mrs Smith said: “He lives in all the hearts of those fortunate to have know him, and he is remembered fondly on a daily basis.
“He was a brave young boy that touched the hearts of so many in his short time on earth.
“The whole school community went out of their way to help Willie enjoy school life.”
Willie joined the school when he was five, with severe learning difficulties.
It was there he found his hero in the form of headteacher Mitch Warrender.
Mr Warrender said he fondly remembers Willie coming into the Year 1 classroom, where he often played his guitar and asked if he could ‘have a go’.
He said the whole school community were totally heartbroken when he passed away.
Sue Smith with her book with Staff from Primary School, friends and family
His favourite pastime was digging and after he died, the school named a mud garden after him.
Wille lost his sight a few months before he died.
His former classmate Hannah Walters recalled him touching her hair to identify her.
She also remembered her mum bringing their tractor into the playground for Willie to drive around.
Members of Willie’s family also attended the book presentation at the school on Monday, June 30.
They said: “Susie is the most selfless and giving person we know and we feel incredibly blessed that our paths crossed in such a way all those years ago.”
The book is available to buy on Amazon, Hungerford Book Shop or contact susan.smith313@ntlworld.com for more information.
Up to 25 per cent of the net profits will be donated to the national charity Young Lives vs Cancer.