Inspirational Bromsgrovian Jonjo to carry Olympic flame

Buy photos » Sunday is set to be the proudest moment of inspirational Jonjo Rooney's life when he carries the Olympic torch through Redditch. s

BROMSGROVIAN Jonjo Rooney will be among those carrying the Olympic Torch when it comes to Redditch on Sunday (July 1).

Jonjo, who has used his own battle with Leukaemia to inspire others, will run with the flame for a section of the relay through Headless Cross.

He was nominated by Sally Clark from Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research for his work for the charity after battling the disease himself.

He was first diagnosed at the Alexandra Hospital in December 2006 at just 23. He underwent chemotherapy and then a bone-marrow transplant in July 2007 and despite complications after the operation the 28-year-old got through it and is now in complete remission.

Since being diagnosed he has supported other patients going into hospitals and talking to them across the world online. He also raises awareness by talking to patient support groups up and down the country and raises money for Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research by taking part in bikeathons and has run the Great North Run and the London Marathon twice.

Jonjo, who grew up in Stoke Heath but now lives in London, said carrying the Olympic torch will be the proudest moment of his life.

“I never expected any of this when I was lying on the hospital bed a few years ago.

"I hope that by carrying the torch it gives hope to all those patients currently battling blood cancer.”

The torch will arrive at the opening ceremony of the Olympics in London on July 27 after its 8,000 mile trip across the UK.

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