What are the signs of retinoblastoma like Ava Grace's?

The main signs of retinoblastoma include a white pupil or glow in photos, a lazy eye, squint, vision loss, or changes in iris color.

How rare is retinoblastoma in children?

Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer affecting 40-50 people annually in the UK, primarily children under five years old.

Where is retinoblastoma treated in the UK?

Specialist treatment for retinoblastoma in the UK is available at only two sites, including Waterfall House at Birmingham Women's and Children's Hospital.

Home / Health / Toddler Loses Eye to Rare Cancer

Toddler Loses Eye to Rare Cancer

28 Nov

•

Summary

Ava Grace was diagnosed with retinoblastoma at age one.
The rare cancer led to the removal of her right eye.
Family travels 200 miles for specialist treatment.

A brave toddler, Ava Grace, faced a life-altering diagnosis of retinoblastoma shortly after her first birthday in 2023. This rare eye cancer necessitated the removal of her right eye, a devastating blow to her parents, Vicki Cooper-Bird and Ian Bird. The family resides in Port Talbot, South Wales, and must travel 200 miles each way to a specialist clinic in Birmingham for Ava's care, attending numerous appointments.

Ava's journey has been fraught with medical challenges, including difficulties with prosthetic eye fittings, infections, and sleep disturbances. Despite these hardships, she is now cancer-free. Her parents are actively supporting Children with Cancer UK's Christmas Appeal, highlighting the importance of comfort items like the teddy bear, Corry, which has provided solace to Ava during her treatment.

While Ava's parents are focused on her recovery and a future as normal as possible, they acknowledge the disruption to their two older children. They emphasize the importance of vigilance, urging parents to be aware of retinoblastoma's signs, particularly changes in pupil appearance during flash photography, to ensure early detection and better outcomes for other children.