‘We had no idea our toddler’s droopy eyes were down to rare and inoperable brain tumour’

A toddler’s health scare has shocked her family after what seemed like droopy eyes turned out to be a rare and inoperable brain tumour. Della Messenger, only two years old, was initially taken for a heart appointment but it was her eyes that drew concern. Following a full eye scan, doctors discovered a benign brain tumour affecting her optic nerves, leading to deteriorating eyesight.

Della’s parents, Raegan Brady and Alex Messenger, were devastated to learn that their daughter may have already lost vision in one eye and is at risk of losing more sight. Treatment involves an 18-month course of chemotherapy, with the hope of slowing the tumour’s growth. Despite being non-cancerous, the tumour’s location behind Della’s left eye poses a threat to her vision.

Raegan expressed the initial shock of the diagnosis, emphasising the need for ongoing treatment to preserve Della’s remaining eyesight. The family, based in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, has faced challenges in balancing work and caring for Della, who requires regular appointments at a hospital an hour away. The emotional toll is significant, with Della’s parents adjusting their work schedules to accommodate her medical needs.

The diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a condition causing non-cancerous tumours, added another layer of complexity to Della’s situation. The tumour’s impact on her vision necessitated immediate medical intervention, leading to the chemotherapy treatment plan. Despite the difficulties, the family has found solace in the support received from friends and the community.

An online fundraiser has been set up to assist with the financial strain of Della’s treatment, with donations pouring in to help ease the family’s burden. Raegan stressed the importance of awareness about benign tumours and their potential consequences, highlighting the impact they can have on individuals like Della. Each day brings new challenges, but the family remains hopeful for Della’s recovery and the preservation of her eyesight through ongoing treatment.