Boy, 5, loses eye after routine pre-school check-up reveals golf ball-sized brain tumour

A five year old boy had a lifesaving operation after a routine pre-school eye test revealed a brain tumour the size of a ball. Riley Thompson from Renfrewshire was whisked off to Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children in February following the eye examination, where he was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma - a rare type of brain tumour.

The mass was compressing his eye, and it wasn't until May that doctors could remove it. Tragically, during the procedure, they also had to remove Riley's eye.

Now, against all odds, the youngster is cancer-free and gearing up for a challenging walk to fundraise for research into the condition with his devoted parents Nicole, 36, and Sam, 34, by his side.

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In a heartfelt statement, mum Nicole disclosed: "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."

She confessed, "I see him every day, so I didn't notice any real change and he never said anything or complained about his sight," adding in disbelief, "My heart stopped when I saw a golf ball-sized lump just behind Riley's eyeball – instantly I knew it must be a tumour."

Nicole issued a powerful plea to other parents, saying, "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 tumours are the leading cause of cancer deaths in people under 40, yet they receive only one per cent of the national cancer research funding, Brain Tumour Research reveals. The charity also notes that this disease claims more young lives than leukaemia, reports .

Despite facing several post-surgery complications, including a spinal fluid leak from his removed eye socket, Riley has shown incredible resilience, starting primary school in September and continuing to enjoy his favourite activities like LEGO and taekwondo. His little sister Isla, aged three, has been a pillar of support, with their mum Nicole sharing: "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."

The Thompson family is now on a mission to raise awareness about brain tumours and are participating in the 99 Miles in November challenge to aid Brain Tumour Research.

This initiative allows supporters to cover the distance in any manner they choose, be it walking, running, cycling, or swimming, to contribute to the battle against this devastating condition.

Nicole praised the lifesaving efforts and stressed the importance of supporting research, stating: "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."

Ashley Williams, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, highlighted the seriousness of the situation with: "Riley's story is a heart-breaking reminder of the devastating impact brain tumours can have, not just on the individual but on their entire family. Despite the challenges, Riley's bravery and his family's resilience show the strength it takes to face this cruel disease. But the fact remains, stories like Riley's are all too common. That's why we desperately need more investment in researching brain tumours."

Brain Tumour Research noted they are bolstering efforts by opening new research centres, including one in next year, encouraging support for advancements in the field. To discover more about Riley's inspirational 99 Miles in November challenge, interested individuals are directed to