BBC viewers were left heartbroken during Sunday's Countryfile special as 12-year-old Tadiwa from Northamptonshire described the 'brutal' side effects of treatment for an inoperable brain tumour, telling presenter Joe Crowley that 'no child should ever have to deal with that'.
This Sunday's (October 25) edition featured this year's ramble for BBC Children in Need, with Matt Baker, Anita Rani, Margherita Taylor, Joe Crowley and John Craven meeting inspirational young people whose lives have been transformed through support from various charities funded by Children In Need.
Now in its 12th year, the 2026 event unfolded against the spectacular backdrop of the Peak District. Each presenter walked alongside five extraordinary young people who have overcome considerable challenges, hearing directly how BBC Children in Need-funded projects have helped them develop confidence, resilience and hope for the future.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Tadiwa was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour just months after his first birthday. His mum explained that one doctor suggested he have an MRI after spotting one of his eyes was squinted, and she said "that scan changed everything."
The youngster has endured nine years of treatment, with his father revealing that he has never had more than six months' respite between them. He now lives with partial sight, and told Joe Crowley: "It's a case of, if I can't see something, I will tell you, but I can see for quite a distance then - no."
'No Child Should Ever Have to Deal With That'
When asked about his experience while receiving treatment, Tadiwa said: "I've gone through a lot. The side effects were gruesome and they were brutal and I feel like no child should ever have to deal with that. I did not want to go outside. I didn't want to play or do anything because I was scared people would be scared of me."
He added: "It was like people found me I was a bit alien or something because the treatment affected my face so much. Even now people say not really nice things, and that's quite upsetting, you know, to hear."
Tadiwa went on to describe how he missed a significant amount of school during treatment. Nevertheless, he shared his uplifting outlook on life, saying: "Your life stops when you have treatment. You don't get to do stuff but you only live once and I believe you should be as positive as you can always be. I always want people to smile, I want people to be happy."
A Surprise Message From Rick Astley
During their ramble together, Tadiwa also discussed how he had participated in sailing adventures organised by the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, which receives funding from BBC Children in Need, and has helped Tadiwa build confidence, independence and friendships.
During his walk with Joe, the BBC presenter delivered a special message to Tadiwa, before surprising him with a video message from singer Rick Astley. The pop star said: "I just want to say I think you're amazing. I'm incredibly proud of what you're doing right now. You're super strong. You've been through so much. If today's a tough day, I know you can get through it. All the best. Lots of love."
A visibly stunned Tadiwa said: "I don't know what to say. That's amazing! I'm about to break into dance now! Oh my days. I love his music."
Viewers at home were deeply touched by the children's stories. One person took to social media to write: "Countryfile is heartbreaking tonight." While another responded: "Watching Countryfile, these stories are so sad. We need all this funding to support our children."
Countryfile continues next Sunday at 5.40pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
