Parents of boy who had cancer make books donation
Lucy and Arron Mellon-Jameson's young son Jude was treated at Sheffield Children's Hospital after being diagnosed with neuroblastoma
- Published
The parents of a young boy who died of cancer have donated 571 books to a children's hospital to mark World Book Day.
Lucy and Arron Mellon-Jameson, from Sheffield, cared for their book-loving son Jude, who was diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma at three years old in 2021.
Jude died in his parents' arms in September 2023.
His mum and dad said they hoped the donation to Sheffield Children's Hospital would help other children suffering from serious illness, keeping their son's legacy alive.
Before he died, their son founded Jude and the Book Factory, a community of young bookworms which allowed Jude to share, swap and hide his books in parks, play areas and other public spaces for other children find and read.
Around 500 children have benefited from the project, many of whom are now hiding their own books for others to find.
Mr Mellon-Jameson, a former professional goalkeeper for Sheffield Wednesday, told the PA news agency: "We read to Jude daily, even in his final days of life as he was being cared for at Sheffield Children's Hospital.
"It transformed the cruel situation we were in, where we could create those last special memories with him."
Jude's parents' donation coincided with World Book Day
Throughout Jude's treatment, the family raised thousands of pounds for the Children's Hospital Charity, including funds for the cancer and leukaemia ward, where Jude spent much of the final years of his life.
Ms Mellon-Jameson, who left her job as a pharmacy team leader when Jude was diagnosed, said books had been a "great escape" for Jude, herself and Arron.
"We understand how it feels to be in the hospital for such a long period of time when your child needs lifesaving treatment," she added.
"We know first-hand how books can transport you to a different place and time, and that's why we're giving back to Sheffield Children's Hospital, to ensure that children just like Jude can have their own adventures from the comfort of their beds."
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