A five-year-old Scots boy lost his eye when a routine preschool vision test revealed he had a brain tumour the size of a golf ball.
Little Riley Thompson was taken to Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children in February after the eye exam, where he was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma.
The mass had been pushing against his eye, prompting doctors to operate in May to remove the growth.
During the emergency surgery, doctors were forced to remove Riley’s eye to save his life.
The brave youngster, from Renfrewshire, has now been declared cancer-free. He is embarking on a fundraising quest with his parents Nicole, 36, and Sam, 34, to support research into the illness.
Mum Nicole, who is a nurse, said: “I noticed a regular squint which led to Riley’s eyes getting checked out by an optometrist at pre-school, then a series of doctors at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow. Although I’m a nurse, I had no idea he was blind in his right eye, let alone that it was due to something more dangerous.
“I see him every day, so I didn’t notice any real change and he never said anything or complained about his sight,” before adding, with a heavy heart: “My heart stopped when I saw a golf ball-sized lump just behind Riley’s eyeball instantly I knew it must be a tumour.”
The mum-of-two also issued a warning to other parents to be aware of symptoms.
She added: “Thousands are diagnosed with brain tumours every year, and I urge all parents that if you notice anything unusual, get your child checked out. It could save their life.”
Brain Tumour Research has highlighted that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of individuals under 40, yet only a mere 1% of the national cancer research budget has been dedicated to this lethal condition since records commenced in 2002.
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The organisation emphasises that the disease claims more young lives than leukaemia.
After his surgery, Riley experienced multiple complications such as a spinal fluid leak from the site of his removed eye. The brave youngster has since taken his first steps into primary school last September.
He has also continued his hobbies, building with LEGO and taking taekwondo classes. His little sister Isla, 3, displays tremendous support for her elder brother.
Nicole continued: “She’s always checking on Riley to make sure he’s OK. It’s been tough for her to understand what’s happening, but she’s been so thoughtful and caring.”
Committed to heightening brain tumour awareness, the Thompson clan is participating in the 99 Miles in November initiative to back Brain Tumour Research. This challenge encourages supporters to cover 99 miles in whatever manner they prefer, be it ambling, running, cycling or swimming, thus contributing to the vital fundraising efforts to combat brain tumours.
Nicole stated: “Riley could have lost much more than an eye to this tumour like so many other children have, so it’s important we do our part to raise funds and awareness of the incredible work that Brain Tumour Research does. We’re committed to walking the 99 Miles in November challenge as a family-to help reach the ultimate goal of finding a live-saving cure for all brain tumours.”
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