A mother and father have shared the heart-wrenching story of how their daughter’s cancer diagnosis changed their lives. Sophie and Stephen McKenna noticed a reflection in their two-year-old daughter Lola’s eye, along with increased instances of falling over. Concerned, Sophie took Lola, now three, to the GP in May, who promptly referred her to an optician. Lola was subsequently seen by specialists at various hospitals before being diagnosed with retinoblastoma. Describing the moment of diagnosis as turning their world “upside down,” Sophie hailed Lola as an “absolute warrior” amidst the turmoil.
Sophie revealed that Lola had not complained of any discomfort in her eye, nor had they noticed significant changes in her vision. However, the increased instances of falling over prompted them to seek medical advice, which ultimately led to the devastating cancer diagnosis. Their initial shock and ongoing struggle to come to terms with the situation highlight the unexpected and challenging nature of dealing with a toddler’s serious illness.
Despite the emotional rollercoaster, Sophie commended Lola’s resilience and positivity throughout her medical journey. The family’s determination to raise awareness about retinoblastoma and its symptoms stems from their desire to prevent others from experiencing a similar ordeal. Symptoms of the rare eye cancer include abnormalities such as a white glow or reflection in the pupil and changes in eye colour.
In a bid to support Lola and her family, a GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds and spread awareness about retinoblastoma. The money raised will be donated to The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust, providing critical support to those affected by the disease. Sophie’s advocacy for early detection and awareness underscores the importance of proactive healthcare measures in safeguarding children’s well-being.
As Lola continues her journey as a young cancer fighter, her family remains steadfast in their commitment to advocating for increased awareness and support for retinoblastoma patients and their loved ones. Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and hope that can emerge even in the face of life’s most challenging circumstances.