At just four years old, Teddy has already faced battles most adults could never imagine. In September 2023, Teddy was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer that often develops in young children.
The tumour in his right eye was large and aggressive. Doctors knew the only way to protect his life was through enucleation—the surgical removal of his eye. It was a decision no parent ever wants to make, but it was one that saved him.
Then came the long road forward.
Although Teddy didn’t need chemotherapy, his journey was far from easy. He continues to attend frequent hospital appointments at Great Ormond Street Hospital and Royal London. There, he undergoes eye checks, scans, and MRIs—procedures that are essential to ensure no hidden tumours remain. A genetic mutation had been found in his tumour, which meant doctors needed to be absolutely sure nothing was overlooked.
Minutes passed. And then—something no one expected.
Even with one eye, Teddy’s spirit never dimmed. He ran, laughed, and played just like any other boy his age. His family often say that his bravery outshines his diagnosis—that he has taught them more about resilience than they could have imagined.
But the journey doesn’t end with surgery and scans. Teddy also attends the National Artificial Eye Service every few months. Moulds are taken to create prosthetic eyes, ensuring they fit and look natural as he grows. It’s a reminder that while the cancer was removed, the impact will stay with him throughout his life.
Soon, Teddy will also begin play therapy. Hospitals can be intimidating places, and children often carry hidden fears after so many medical experiences. Play therapy will help him process those emotions and rebuild confidence in spaces where he once felt fear.
It was as if each step of his journey revealed another layer of his strength.
For Teddy’s family, watching him face these challenges has been both heartbreaking and inspiring. They’ve had to hold their son through procedures no child should endure, but they’ve also witnessed his extraordinary ability to adapt and thrive.
Today, Teddy is not defined by the eye he lost. He is defined by the light in the one he still has—the one that sparkles with joy when he laughs, when he plays, and when he reminds his parents that even after the darkest storms, sunshine always returns.
As part of the Go Gold campaign for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Teddy’s story is being shared to spread hope, raise awareness, and remind families facing similar battles that they are not alone. Childhood cancer changes everything, but it also reveals extraordinary courage.
Despite everything he has faced, Teddy continues to amaze his family—and everyone who meets him—with his bravery, resilience, and unstoppable smile.
Sometimes, heroes are just little boys in yellow shirts, holding their favourite toy, teaching us all what it means to be strong.