A “FIT and healthy” eight-year-old has been diagnosed with leukaemia just 24 hours after his parents noticed a rash on his legs and lower body. 

Sporty youngster Donnie Marks, from Canvey, loves playing football and golf, and has always been fit, active, and “always happy”, according to his parents. 

However, the family has been devastated after being hit by the shock cancer diagnosis. 

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On Thursday his mum, Cassie Gunn, 39, noticed a rash on his legs and lower torso, so called 111.

They advised her to take him to Southend A&E, and after several tests and discussions with Great Ormand Street Hospital, doctors believed he has leukaemia.

His dad, Paul Marks, said both him and Donnie’s mum were in a state of shock, but were immediately taken by ambulance with Donnie to GOSH.

Paul said: “When we got to GOSH, we were met with several doctors and nurses all explaining what was happened and what would happen next.

“We were overwhelmed in a state of shock, despair nor able to take anything in, our whole world was collapsing, and we just wanted to curl up in a ball and cry.

“Eighteen hours ago, we had a fit and healthy boy, now he is in surgery and having his first round of chemotherapy.

“Our hearts are broken.

“Donnie has been nothing short of amazing though, his resilience, bravery, and cheery attitude has really shone through.

“It really has made us even prouder of this special little fella.

“It is going to be a long road back, but he will get there.”

Donnie regularly attended the Canvey Island Youth FC’s Mini Kickers, the Meridian Wing Chun martial arts centre, as well as the Sharpshooters Golf Academy and is well-known across the island. 

A GoFundMe has been set up by the community to help support Donnie and the family, which has already raised more than £2,000 in less than 48 hours.

Paul added: “The care and professionalism of Southend Hospital and GOSH has been nothing short of incredible.

“The support we have received on Facebook, elsewhere and from the whole of Canvey has been nothing short of incredible too.

“It has brought us to tears, made us smile, and while sometimes it is hard to read, it has really humbled us and supported us during this difficult time.

“Love to everyone.”

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/donnie-marks-fund?