A college student has been honoured with a prestigious Scout award for his bravery in battling a brain tumour alongside a series of other health issues.

Matthew Cook, enrolled at Heart of Worcestershire College (HoW College) on the level two digital and creative media course, was the recipient of the coveted Cornwell Scout Badge.

This accolade is given for devotion to duty, courage and endurance, which Mr Cook has demonstrated through his relentless commitment to scouting, which he began as a six-year-old, despite his health issues.

 

 

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He was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis when he was eight years old, and soon faced numerous brain tumours, with one requiring removal via surgery.

As a result Mr Cook received chemotherapy and regular tumour inspections, and has faced new challenges such as fatigue, physical limitations and potential hearing loss.

Yet it was not enough to quell Mr Cook’s scouting spirit, earning the Chief Scouts' Bronze Award among other recognitions.

He also undertook the District Dove trek challenge, a gruelling 12-mile hike, before the lockdown, and participated in Zoom meetings during the pandemic before transitioning into Explorer Scouts.

Mr Cook said: "Scouting allows me to be me, I can do as much as I can with the support of my friends despite my limitations.

"Scouting gives me a freedom from hospitals and lets me have a normal Life.

"Dovetrek was so hard and pushed me to my limit, I also got scout of the year in my last year of Scouts."

More challenges lie ahead for the young man, with further surgery for his ankle coming up, as well as dealing with the day to day challenge of his health conditions.

But Mr Cook stands resolute, committed to continue scouting for as long as he is physically able.