'Miracle’ celebration includes drive-by hooting as Derbyshire boy is declared cancer free

Residents in Derbyshire have had a good reason for celebrations following the news that Travis Hicks has been cleared of a rare and aggressive form cancer he has been fighting for over three years.

Initially, when Travis’ mum, Lucy Hicks was told the incredible news she had no idea how to react. After some time to process the good news, she knew the family needed to celebrate, one way or another.

Whilst respecting the current social distancing guidelines, the family created a huge banner to be placed in the front window to display the clear message of triumph to friends, family and other locals.

Lucy said: “This has really been the most difficult challenge of my life. Having to witness my son fight this for the last three years is a pain no one should have to endure. I’ve been through the hardest of times thinking I may have to bury my son.

“I knew that it was important to stay strong not only for myself but for my family as well. All the inspiration to keep strong came from Travis, he has done nothing but fight this disease with a smile on his face.

“When I got the news Travis was cancer free, I just couldn’t hold back the tears – I don’t think I’ve ever been so happy. When we made the celebration banner we decided ask people to share the moment with us and hoot as they drove by.

“I told my friend Donna Hales everything, and she told me Travis would have a surprise arriving between 12pm and 1pm, with another surprise to follow between 6pm and 7pm.

“The first surprise was in the form of a Star Wars man who dressed up as various characters, which Travis absolutely loved. The second made me jump about 4ft in the air with fright, as a long line of police cars and fire engines drove by with sirens blaring and hooters being honked.

“It was truly an amazing gesture from the Derbyshire police and fire services. Travis has mentioned it will be a moment he will never forget.”

The Derbyshire police and fire services said it was a privilege to take part in the occasion and hopefully make Travis’ celebrations so much sweeter.

PC Tom Warsop, of Bolsover and Shuttlewood Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “I was contacted by a member of Travis’ family, who asked if we could take part in the ‘drive-by hooting.’

“We thought it was a great way to support a little man with a big reason to celebrate. We asked our fire service colleagues if they wanted to join in and they were happy to help.”

For now, Travis will continue having checks to make sure non of the cancerous cells return.