A four year old boy from Writhlington has been diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour following a fall.
Elias was rushed to Bath RUH following the accident and was sent home later that evening. Elias’ parents, Jake and Abbie, raised concerns with doctors about symptoms Elias was displaying after being discharged from the hospital.
Elias’s mum, Abbie, said: “His eye went all droopy and went limp like a newborn. He also developed a different walk which led to him being wobbly and off balance.
“We found out Elias had an abnormality on his brain on the 15th April and we were sent to Bristol children's hospital that night. The following day was confirmed a brain tumour in his brain stem.”
So far, brave Elias has been through thirteen rounds of chemotherapy and the family are in talks with health professionals about Elias doing a medical trial. Abbie explained, “We don't know too much about this yet, but we are hoping in the near future the trial can help extend Elias’ life and/or miraculously cure him.”
Following Elias’ diagnosis, Jake and Abbie have received support from charities and organisations in the community. Avon Fire and Rescue Service gave Elias’ family a tour of their depot, and Elias got to ride in a fire truck, which was really special as ‘neenaws’ are one of his favourite things!” Bath-based charity Ben Saunders Foundation has offered the family a week-long trip to the Cotswolds, giving them time together to make memories.
Jake and Abbie’s number one priority is to spend every moment with Elias making memories along with his big sister Lola and younger brother Remy. The parents are are unable to work as they are providing care for Elias, and want to spend what precious time they have making the most out of the time they have with their son.
Abbie said: “People have been so generous, both charities and individuals have given things to us so we can stress less about bills. We have received a lot of support which we are so grateful for.”
To continue to help Elias live life to the fullest, his family have planned a fun day at Radstock Town Football Club on Saturday, 29th June.
Jam-packed with activities to entertain the whole family, the event offers free entry with small fees for each activity. Buckets will also be dotted around the site for those wanting to make further donations. All proceeds will be shared between Elias’ family and the Ocean Ward at Bristol Children’s Hospital.
On the day, expect a bouncy castle, face painting, arts and crafts, food vendors - including an ice cream van - plus, Spider Man will be making a guest appearance as a surprise for the children.
If you can’t make the event but wish to make a donation to the family, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-elias-through-cancer-please-read-his-story