Boy with liver transplant surprised by Gladiator

Clara BullockSomerset
News imageBBC Jake and Montell Douglas are on a running track. Montell is pointing at Jake, who is holding an award.BBC
Gladiator Fire surprised Jake, who has won a gold medal in the Transplant Games

A seven-year-old Transplant Games champion has been surprised by the Gladiator Fire with a special award.

Jake, from Bath, had to have a liver transplant when he was four years old. He has since taken part in the Transplant Games, where he won a gold medal for long jump.

While filming with the BBC about the games, he was surprised by Gladiator Montell Douglas, known as Fire, who presented him with an award for "being brave".

"I want people to know I'm brave, strong, determined and resilient. Taking part in sports is quite fun for me, I get to compete against other people, make new friends, and win medals," Jake said.

News imageFamily Handout Jake is running in a gym with a man next to him cheering him on.Family Handout
Jake takes part in the Transplant Games

"To get through some of the scary times, I have to stay really positive," Jake added.

"Me and my brother Max really love watching Gladiators. I maybe want to be a Gladiator when I grow up."

When presenting Jake with his award, Douglas said: "Jake has been through some tough times but he has the heart of a champion."

Jake's dad said he found his son "inspiring", adding: "His passion for life is amazing. He never lets that he's had to have a transplant hold him back."

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