A science-mad youngster has experienced first hand how DNA is extracted and looked at cancer cells under a microscope as a special guest of the School of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia.
Alfie Oswick, eight, from Cawston, near Reepham was offered the tour of the biomedical research laboratories after cancer charity The Big C heard about his 'awesome' appeal.
The youngster, who goes to Cawston Primary Academy, has launched a fundraising appeal for Dereham Cancer Care, the charity which has supported his family through the loss of his two great-grandparents and when his mum Jennifer was diagnosed with skin cancer.
He has already raised over £1000 in just a month.
Mrs Oswick said they had a 'fabulous' time meeting Dr Stephen Robinson, a scientist sponsored by The Big C, and Dr Chris Bushby from the charity.
'Alfie said it was the best day of his life so far,' she said. 'He got to make a necklace with a small vial of his DNA that they extracted from his cheek cells.
'He looked at some melanoma cells under a microscope which is the cancer I had so that was interesting and he also got to look at some cells in liquid nitrogen.
'Everyone was very friendly and Alfie was in awe of all the students and doctors.
'He is now set on becoming a scientist and Dr Robinson said he would offer Alfie a PhD under him when he is old enough so he has that to look forward to.'
How to donate to Alfie's Awesome Appeal
Go to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/alfiesawesomeappeal or email jynks2001@hotmail.com
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