HARRY SALM, 9, REMEMBERED FOR HIS CHEEKY SMILE AND INCREDIBLE IMAGINATION AFTER BRAIN CANCER BATTLE

Nine-year-old Harry Salm has died after a brave four-year battle with brain cancer, leaving behind a family who want him remembered not for his illness, but for his cheeky smile, kindness and extraordinary imagination.

Harry died peacefully on September 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. His death came after doctors had confirmed earlier this year that his cancer had returned and that there were no longer curative treatment options available.

His parents, Andy and Vicki Salm, and his younger sister, Millie, spent Harry’s final months making memories together and filling his days with love, laughter and family adventures.

A DIAGNOSIS JUST AFTER HIS SISTER WAS BORN

Harry was first diagnosed with medulloblastoma, an aggressive type of cancerous brain tumour, in 2022.

The devastating diagnosis came just 14 days after the birth of his baby sister, Millie.

Harry underwent major surgery before travelling to Germany for months of proton beam therapy. He then returned to the UK, where he received almost a year of chemotherapy.

Despite the difficult treatment, his family said he showed remarkable courage and positivity throughout his illness.

For a period, Harry was able to move forward from treatment and enjoy life with his family.

But in February 2026, the family received devastating news: the cancer had returned.

This time, there were no curative treatment options available, and Harry’s condition was considered terminal.

HE TURNED HIS IMAGINATION INTO A STORY

Even while facing a terminal illness, Harry continued to create.

One of his most special achievements was helping create a children’s story called “Monster Catchers.”

The project reflected the imagination that his family says was such a huge part of his personality.

Harry worked with illustrator Jane Horton on the story, which follows children on an imaginative adventure involving monsters, inventions and fantastical ideas.

His family has described the book as one of Harry’s proudest achievements and hopes his creativity will continue to live on through the story.

The family has also said they hope to use the book to raise money for organisations connected to childhood cancer, including Brain Tumour Research and Candlelighters.

“A KIND, FRIENDLY BOY”

Harry’s mother wants people to remember the little boy behind the diagnosis.

He has been described as a kind and friendly child with a cheeky smile and a “wicked imagination.”

Those qualities remained with him throughout his illness.

Rather than allowing cancer to define his childhood, Harry continued to spend time with the people he loved and pursue the things that made him happy.

His family said his courage had inspired many people around him.

A FAMILY’S TRIBUTE

A fundraising campaign was created in Harry’s memory to help his family with funeral costs and provide support as they adjust to life without their beloved son and brother.

The fundraiser describes Harry as an extraordinary little boy whose courage, creativity and positivity touched many lives.

As of the latest update, hundreds of people had donated to the campaign, with supporters leaving messages for Harry’s family.

The fundraiser ends with a simple tribute:

“Forever 9. Forever loved. Forever our Harry.”

Harry’s life was tragically short, but his family hopes his story will be remembered through the laughter, memories and imagination he shared with those around him.

And through Monster Catchers, a small part of Harry’s extraordinary imagination may continue to reach other children long after his death.