Tributes have poured in for a "kind, caring and funny little boy" who dreamed of becoming a binman.
Kirkby's very own superhero, Lee-Joshua Hodgson, was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at the age of three after "strange" symptoms. But despite being given just a five to 10% chance of survival, the youngster bravely fought the disease, with the help of his loved ones and community.
Sadly, Lee lost his fight on June 26 as mum Keishia Murphy said he "fought every last breath" and was a "real-life superhero". Describing him as a "kind, caring, generous, happy and funny little boy", she told the ECHO her young son had dreamt of becoming a binman.
READ MORE: Heartbreak as 'real-life superhero' dies, aged 4, after cancer battle
Since news of his death, tributes have come pouring in from the Kirkby community, and beyond, as the young boy touched the hearts of many through his "brave battle". One ECHO reader said he had a "great smile" as another wrote: "Rest in peace superhero. Fly high and look down on your mummy and daddy."
One person commented: "Four years old, how incredibly sad is that. Rest in peace little man", as a third added: "So so sad. Fly with the angels wee man. Thoughts and prayers with his family and friends."
Another person added: "God bless his angelic soul. RIP son", as people sent their heartfelt condolences to the family. Facebook pages have been flooded with the colour green, as Lee's loved ones, friends and followers spread green love hearts in his memory, with what was his "favourite colour".
Back in 2020, Lee was experiencing strange symptoms such as a cough and swelling in the groin area, but was told it was viral and was given anti-biotics. But with no improvement, and when a lump was found on his knee, the family found themselves in hospital on Christmas Day.
Scans eventually showed he had stage four metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma alveolar. The disease is an extremely rare and aggressive cancer that forms in soft tissue.
Ever since his diagnosis, the community of Kirkby, and beyond, have followed his journey and raised funds for private treatment as well as supporting the family when and where they could. In response to the level of support, mum Keishia said it was "amazing" to see the impact her son had as he "touched the hearts of Liverpool."
A celebration of life is to be held today, Thursday, July 7 at St Joseph and St Laurence Church at 1pm followed by interment at Anfield Cemetery. Those who loved and supported Baby Lee have also been invited to Kirkby Sports Bar and Function Club after his service.
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