Renfrewshire boy diagnosed with 'golf ball-sized brain tumour' after pre-school eye test

A five-year-old boy was diagnosed with a “golf ball-sized brain tumour” after undergoing a routine eye test at a pre-school in Renfrewshire.

Riley Thompson was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma in February, which was pressing against his eye.

The five-year-old underwent emergency surgery in May to remove the tumour, but surgeons were forced to remove his eye too.

Mum Nicole said she had noticed Riley had a squint which led to his eyes being checked by an optometrist at pre-school, followed by a series of doctors at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

Riley Thompson was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma pressing against his eye. Brain Tumour Research

“Although I’m a nurse, I had no idea he was blind in his right eye, let alone that it was due to something more dangerous,” the 36-year-old said.

“I see him every day, so I didn’t notice any real change and he never said anything or complained about his sight.”

Nicole recalled the “heart-stopping” moment she saw Riley’s tumour and urged parents to get their child checked out if they noticed anything unusual.

Despite several complications after surgery, including a spinal fluid leak from his removed eye socket, Riley has remained resilient.

Riley Thompson at his preschool graduation. Brain Tumour Research

He started primary school in September and continues to enjoy activities like playing with Lego and practicing taekwondo.

His younger sister Isla, three, has been by his side, offering support in her own special way.

The mum-of-two added: “She’s always checking on Riley to make sure he’s OK. It’s been tough for her to understand what’s happening, but she’s been so thoughtful and caring.”

Riley with younger sister, Isla. Brain Tumour Research

Six months after his surgery, Riley is taking on an ambitious walking challenge to raise funds for the charity Brain Tumour Research alongside his parents Nicole and Sam, 34.

The Thompson family is determined to raise awareness about brain tumours and are taking part in the 99 Miles in November challenge to support Brain Tumour Research.

Nicole added: “Riley could have lost much more than an eye to this tumour like so many other children have, so it’s important we do our part to raise funds and awareness of the incredible work that Brain Tumour Research does.

“We’re committed to walking the 99 Miles in November challenge as a family – to help reach the ultimate goal of finding a life-saving cure for all brain tumours.”

Ashley Williams, community development manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “Riley’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating impact brain tumours can have, not just on the individual but on their entire family.

“Despite the challenges, Riley’s bravery and his family’s resilience show the strength it takes to face this cruel disease,” she added.

“But the fact remains, stories like Riley’s are all too common. That’s why we desperately need more investment in researching brain tumours.”