A toddler in Wales is facing the daunting prospect of losing her vision due to a rare and inoperable brain tumour, as reported by Wales Online. Little Della Messenger, just two years old, had her condition discovered when her “droopy” eyes raised concerns during a routine medical appointment. Despite the initial reason for the visit being to check Della’s heart, the doctor spotted the abnormality in her eyes and ordered a comprehensive eye scan.
The scan revealed that one of Della’s optic nerves was significantly swollen, leading to the diagnosis of a benign brain tumour known as optic pathway glioma pressing on her optic nerves. Della’s parents, Raegan Brady and Alex Messenger, were informed that the tumour had been causing a decline in their daughter’s eyesight. The doctors suspect that Della has already lost vision in her left eye and that her remaining sight is at risk.
Due to the inoperable nature of the tumour, Della is undergoing an 18-month course of chemotherapy in the hopes of halting its growth and preserving her vision. Raegan shared their initial fears upon learning about Della’s condition, emphasising the complexity of dealing with a non-cancerous tumour that cannot be removed. Della’s parents also revealed the challenges they face in juggling work, hospital visits, and caring for their daughter amidst the intense treatment regimen.
Despite the hurdles, the family remains hopeful as they await the results of Della’s treatment to assess the tumour’s response to chemotherapy. To support Della’s ongoing care, a community fundraiser has been organised, with generous donations pouring in to aid the family during this difficult time. Raegan expressed gratitude for the community’s support and emphasised the importance of raising awareness about conditions like Della’s, highlighting the significant impact even benign tumours can have on individuals.
As the Messenger family navigates the uncertainties ahead, they remain resilient in their determination to provide the best possible care for their beloved daughter, Della.