McFly drummer Harry Judd and his wife – violinist Izzy Johnston – were ‘bowled over’ by Keech Hospice Care when they paid a surprise visit last month.
They’d never been to a hospice before and were there at the invitation of two-year-old Oliver Marchant, son of close friends Tiggy and Matthew.
Oliver was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma – cancer of the nervous system – in May.
He’s already undergone chemotherapy, surgery to remove the tumour and radiotherapy and Keech is helping him and his parents readjust to normal life.
Harry – who’s headlining the Hyde Park Festival this summer with supergroup McBusted – said: He’s such a happy, chatty little boy.
“He’s definitely a boy’s boy - he loves cars, trains and lorrys and is particularly fond of Izzy’s Mini which he calls ‘Izzy’s funny car.’
“But he’s also partial to a Disney Princess or two, thank to his four-year-old sister Ella who we also adore.”
The 2011 Strictly Come Dancing champion added: “Oliver loves life and his resilience through all his gruelling treatment has been a wonder to see.
“We were absolutely heartbroken for the family when he was diagnosed. It’s always hard seeing people you care about going through difficult times but we’re over the moon that he’s responded so well to treatment.
“We were amazed by the wonderful care Keech provides and were bowled over by how special it is.”
Hospice staff arranged a special ‘Tots and Toys’ tea party for Harry and Izzy’s visit.
Izzy and Tiggy have known each other since school days and Tiggy’s mum is Izzy’s godmother.
Tiggy said: “Izzy and Harry are such a loving supportive couple.
“They do such special things to help us get through, like inviting us to see the band at the Royal Albert Hall as VIP guests.” It was while Oliver was going through chemotherapy and exactly the diversion she and Matthew needed.
Tiggy said going to Keech had also been a ‘huge deal.’
“It was the first time I’d been able to leave Oliver since this horror began,” she explained. “It meant I had time and space for Ella when she started primary school, knowing he was safe and happy.”
Keech spokeswoman Mel Barry said: “Having visitors like Harry is so important for the hospice. It helps draw attention to the work we do but also has a huge impact on boosting morale.
“We’d love to have him and Izzy back.”
> Support Oliver at https://www.justgiving.com/teams/Olivers-kicking-cancer-fundraising