A DREAM has come true for a youngster who is on the road to recovery following a bone marrow transplant.

Leukaemia sufferer Michael Fogarty, nine, was promised his life's dream - a puppy - when he was given the all-clear by doctors to go near animals.

Now, a year after Michael's lifesaving operation, he and his 12-year-old brother, David, are the proud owners of ten-week-old black labrador Samba.

In March, Michael, of Hurworth, near Darlington, was nominated successfully at the Positive Young People Awards by his headteacher.

Hurworth primary headteacher John Graham described the youngster as "a great inspiration to many".

He said: "He has borne all his illness and treatment bravely, uncomplaining and cheerfully. We are delighted to have Michael back at school and he is settling back into his lessons nicely.

As well as his operation, Michael has needed ten months of intensive chemotherapy, radiology and drug treatment.

His mother, Judith, said: "He is quite extraordinary. He was in a lot of pain with his joints, but he pushed himself through it because he just wanted to be able to do the things that other children do, like playing football."

Michael's brother, David, has also had to cope with the frequent absence of his parents while they accompanied Michael through the treatment at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, in Newcastle.

Mrs Fogarty said: "John and I always made sure that at least one of us returned home every night to be with David.

"We felt terrible when he was sitting his Sats exams and we couldn't be with him all the time. But friends and neighbours have been so supportive."

Michael still has hospital check-ups every two weeks but is recovering well.

* The Positive Young People awards, supported by The Northern Echo, were held to celebrate the achievements of young people.