Countryfile presenter Joe Crowley will be joined by 12-year-old Tadiwa from Northamptonshire in an upcoming episode of the BBC show. The youngster, who endured nine years of treatment for an inoperable brain tumour, will share his story for a Children in Need special.
Peak District Ramble for Children in Need
Together, they will explore the Peak District to raise awareness for the 12th-anniversary special of the yearly event. Tadiwa now lives with partial sight following years of intensive treatment after being diagnosed with a brain tumour at just 18 months.
During the episode, he will take part in a sailing adventure organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, which receives funding from BBC Children in Need and has helped Tadiwa develop confidence, independence and friendships.
Tadiwa's Story and Family Support
The 12-year-old said: "Taking part in the Countryfile Ramble was really fun. I really enjoyed spending time with Joe and taking on my ramble challenge."
He has been involved with the charity since he was eight years old and has developed an affinity for football, art, and crafting. His mother, Vanessa, spoke about the charity's support and revealed that it had made a huge impact. She said: "The challenges Tadiwa has faced have been life-changing for our whole family. Opportunities like those provided by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and BBC Children in Need have given him confidence and resilience."
Other Youngsters and Presenters Join the Walk
In addition to Tadiwa, the programme will feature four other youngsters who have overcome significant challenges with support from funded charities. Throughout the episode, the presenters lead a group walk through the Peak District as part of the Countryfile Ramble, which has raised over £17.4 million for the charity since launching in 2015.
Joe will be joined by fellow presenters Matt Baker, Anita Rani and Margherita Taylor as they head to the Hollowford Centre in the English National Park. While Joe teams up with Tadiwa, Matt will be undertaking his ramble with Jay and Aine, who receive support from the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice sibling support group.
Anita will be joining Grace, who has been supported by Seashell Trust's CADS holiday programme, while Margherita will walk alongside Bethan, who receives support from the Scottish children's cancer charity, Team Jak. Meanwhile, John Craven, alongside Pudsey Bear, will speak to family members and the team from the Lindley Educational Trust to hear about the impact of BBC Children in Need funding and the difference youth work can make in the lives of children and young people.
