About Robbie
Robert Leo Stuart Anderson was born on August 5th 1992 in Leicester. His brother, Jamie, two years older, formed a strong bond with Robbie right from the start. They were very close and always did everything together. Both started their education at Viscount Beaumont C of E Primary School in their home village of Coleorton and then moved onto The Wolstan School and then The Dixie Grammar School in Market Bosworth.
Robbie loved school and even when he became very ill was determined to attend whenever he could. His attractive smile, warm personality and great sense of fun endeared him to everyone. He had a tremendous zest for life and always wanted to try and cram as much into his day as possible. His nickname was Rabbit when he was younger as he could never be still.
Until his illness Robbie was very fit and enjoyed football, tennis and running. He loved karting and was a demon round the track - always wanting to beat his brother - and often succeeding. Robbie was a member of The Willesley Golf Club in Ashby de la Zouch and enjoyed playing with his brother and friends. He loved books and would spend hours doing crosswords and playing scrabble. Like many boys his age he was addicted to his X-Box and games. Just a few months before he became ill the family went on holiday to Canada.. There he discovered a love of fishing, white water rafting and kayaking.
Robbie was tall for his age , with a deep voice for a twelve year old. He often appeared to be older than his years. When he first went into hospital the staff were always asking him when he was sitting his GCSE's, which he found very amusing.
When asked by one of the nurses if he could suggest any way of improving the ward he proposed that the hospital porters, who were always late bringing his chemotherapy or blood products up to the ward, should be under twenty five and be made to wear running shoes. Said, of course, with a big smile.
Robbie was the greatest fun to be with and drew people to him like a magnet.
He was strong, spirited, self-possessed and courageous. When he became ill in November 2004 he truly showed what he was made of. His absolute unwavering courage and cheerfulness never faltered, in public or in private.
He was unfailingly polite and good humoured to the staff at LRI, often in difficult circumstances. An extremely bright and mature boy, he knew how ill he was but was determined to get through and beat his cancer.
Robbie's fifteen months of illness undoubtedly changed him from a carefree, happy twelve year old boy, full of promise, to a charismatic young man who has become a true inspiration to all who knew him.
Not only have Robbie's warmth and cheerfulness lightened up my days, but he remarkably recovered these characteristics even in difficult times. At the same time he has shown a lot of initiative and made a serious and enthusiastic effort to learn. The admiration Robbie inspires made me think of school as a place where teachers and pupils can learn from one another.
Dr Triebener Robbie's Form Tutor July 2005
He is truly setting an example in courage and character to fellow pupils as well as to staff.
I've learnt a lot from your courage and strength. Thank you for that.
Robbie, you touched the hearts of so many