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Local youngster to be featured on Variety Show of Hearts Telethon

Markus Yule will be at home on the stage, says mom

Scott Stanfield

Record staff

 

A young Courtenay cancer survivor will be one of the featured children on the Variety Show of Hearts Telethon in February.

Twelve-year-old Markus Yule is a Grade 7 student at Valley View Elementary who was diagnosed with two brain tumours in 2013. After falling at school and hitting his head, Markus was checked for concussion at St. Joseph’s Hospital. A CT scan revealed the tumours. He underwent radiation and chemotherapy at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.

“He is a year-and-a-half cancer-free now,” his mother Yvonne said. “His two-year mark will be June 25. From there, the farther we get away from the date the better it is.”

Cancer treatments have created a few issues. For instance, Markus’ left side is not as strong as his right, and he has suffered short-term memory loss. And he is not “girthy” as other kids his age, Yvonne said.

“(But) It takes a lot to get this kid down. He just kind of picks up and rolls on.”

Variety has assisted the family with funds for a neurological physiotherapist, who has helped Markus build up his strength.

“Which was perfect for Markus’ needs,” Yvonne said.

While Markus is excited about the telethon, his mother has a word of caution to the organizers of the event, which airs Feb. 13 and 14 on Global TV.

“I don’t know if they realize if he gets a mic in his hand they might have a new host. He’s not afraid of being on camera. He could do a stadium of people and he wouldn’t be afraid.”

Last year, Markus participated in the Variety Radiothon hosted by The Eagle 97.3.

“He was on the mic like it was second nature. They almost offered him a job,” Yvonne said with a laugh.

Variety - The Children’s Charity is not the only organization that has supported the Yule family. Last spring, Markus and his parents drove to Disneyland and Legoland in California, compliments of the Help Fill a Dream Foundation. You Are Not Alone (YANA) has also assisted the family with travel expenses.