JOE Males has been nominated for a Pride of Comet Country award for his inspirational attitude while battling a rare form of leukaemia. Joe, 15, of Hitchin, was diagnosed in January. He had a transplant last Friday. Joe s cousin Laura told The Comet:

JOE Males has been nominated for a Pride of Comet Country award for his inspirational attitude while battling a rare form of leukaemia.

Joe, 15, of Hitchin, was diagnosed in January. He had a transplant last Friday.

Joe's cousin Laura told The Comet: "It was a life-changing shock not only to his family but his friends and anyone who knows him.

"However, through all of his treatment, his search for a bone marrow donor and the pain and suffering he has had to endure, the smile has never left Joe's face.

"Without his positive attitude, his parents wouldn't have had the strength to support him. I don't think he quite realised what a difference his attitude has made to those who are supporting him through his treatment."

She said his school friends have been incredible by visiting him as much as they can.

She said: "You can see by reading the messages on his website how much he is loved by both his peers and adults alike.

"An amazing young man with incredible courage, I want him to know how proud I am of his battle against cancer and tell him how much he has impressed not only me, but everyone around him with his fantastic outlook on the awful situation he was thrust into."

Joe's transplant took place on Friday and went very well. It started at 7pm and took 5 hours 15 minutes.

Joe's mum Sue said: "Joe's really well but tired - he's sleeping lots and eating loads. He's in isolation now so is really glad he has his laptop so he can communicate with his friends that way!"

- The Pride of Comet Country awards are a chance to highlight all the unsung heroes in Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth, Baldock and Mid Beds.

If you would like to nominate a young achiever, a carer, a role model, an inspirational parent, a fundraiser, a volunteer or an environmentally friendly group contact Nicola Bastendorff on 01438 866200 or email nicola.basten dorff@thecomet

.net for an application pack. We will feature as many nominees' stories in the weeks leading up to the awards as we can.