‘Doctors thought my boy, 2, had constipation – but it was rare cancer’

A toddler’s health scare turned into a nightmare for a family in Glasgow when doctors discovered he had a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Two-year-old Tommy Paul Quinn fell ill following a family holiday in January, initially sparking concerns of a possible food allergy due to certain food triggers and sleeping difficulties. Nicole and David, Tommy’s parents, took him to Glasgow Children’s Hospital after noticing his lethargy during a family party. A series of tests revealed Tommy had Stage 4 High-Risk Neuroblastoma, a cancer with a 50% survival rate that had spread to multiple areas in his body. Tommy began a challenging treatment regimen involving chemotherapy, surgeries, and tests to combat the disease.

Nicole described Tommy as a lively boy who enjoyed playing with cars, but the diagnosis cast a shadow over their lives. The family braced themselves for a tough journey ahead, with Tommy facing 18 months of treatment to determine if the cancer would go into remission. Despite the hardships, Tommy showed resilience and strength throughout the treatments, keeping his cheerful nature and continuing to bring joy to his family. The family started a fundraiser to cover potential treatment costs, including the possibility of seeking treatments abroad if needed, with expenses potentially reaching £250,000. The goal is to provide Tommy with the best chance to overcome the cancer and support him through this challenging time.

Nicole shared their gratitude for the outpouring of support and explained that any funds not used for Tommy’s treatment would be donated to charities assisting with Neuroblastoma research. The family remains hopeful for Tommy’s recovery but is aware of the uncertainties that lie ahead, including the risk of cancer relapse even if the treatment is successful. The community rallied around the family, showing solidarity and generosity in helping Tommy fight his battle against cancer. Tommy’s courageous spirit and the family’s determination to give him the best possible care serve as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.