Bendigo's Teale Hammond recovering well from cancer

The 11-year-old Bendigo boy is still rebuilding his ability to walk, after spending much of 2020 battling a cancer next to his calf bone.

Teale was diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma in 2019, then aged 10, after doctors discovered a five-inch tumor beside his fibula, which had warped the bone.

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Surgeons would later remove the tumor, fibula, ligaments and nerve, leaving Teale with limited movement in his leg.

But Teale's now back on his feet, with just the aid of crutches and a brace.

Mum Bec Hammond said he still had a long road ahead, but was recovering well. Ms Hammond said Teale sometimes told her he never thought he'd get this far.

He has been slowly working his way through hydro and physiotherapy to strengthen his legs more, putting him well on the way to walking. Along the way he graduated from a wheelchair, to a walker, to crutches.

It's been the latest stage in a months long journey. Teale underwent chemotherapy several months, then radiotherapy.

Surgeons also removed the tumor, but were forced to take out Teale's fibula, the surrounding muscle, ligaments and to remove and reconstruct a nerve.

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Mrs Hammond said the treatment was grueling for Teale, who lost weight and could barely move or talk for pain some days.

During the COVID-19 lockdowns the family stayed in Melbourne for treatment, but could barely see family at all.

But Mrs Hammond said Teale was a trooper throughout, always trying to stay positive.

"He's such a positive kid, and he's a huge inspiration," she said.

"Even in his most down times, in the hospital in his bed, feeling horribly sick ... he'd be underneath his covers and poke out some minties to give to the nurses."

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Mid-year, results finally showed the family that Teale was cancer free.

Ms Hammond said the experience now felt like a dream. She said support from family, friends and the broader community had been vital to keeping the family above water, both financially and emotionally.

The family is processing their experience though.

"We're still getting past it I guess and moving on and trying to make things easier for him," Mrs Hammond said.

"With his progress, it just lifts his spirits more with each step."

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