A mother’s keen observation led to a life-altering diagnosis for her baby boy. At just 10 months old, Jordy Arthur’s mother, Teresa Craigie, noticed that he was not using his left hand. Although doctors initially downplayed the issue, Teresa insisted on further tests, which revealed a plum-sized low-grade glioma on Jordy’s brain. Subsequently, Jordy underwent extensive surgery to remove 90% of the tumor, followed by chemotherapy to address the remaining portion.

Recent tests have confirmed the success of the chemotherapy, with Jordy’s tumor now stable, eliminating the need for further treatment at this time. Teresa shared her initial concerns, recalling how Jordy’s deteriorating condition prompted her to advocate for more thorough investigations. Despite the initial uncertainty, the family entrusted medical professionals with Jordy’s delicate situation, leading to the challenging surgery and subsequent recovery process.

Jordy, now three years old, began displaying symptoms in March 2023 and was airlifted to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee in May of the same year following a respiratory incident. Despite initial inconclusive results, Teresa’s persistence led to Jordy undergoing surgery in Edinburgh, followed by a period of recovery and rehabilitation in the city. However, the surgery’s physical toll on Jordy was evident, requiring him to relearn basic movements and cope with new challenges like third nerve palsy affecting his right eye.

In December 2023, after an MRI scan revealed tumor growth, Jordy commenced chemotherapy. Teresa highlighted the family’s prolonged hospital stays and Jordy’s remarkable resilience throughout his treatment journey. She expressed gratitude for the support received, including her aunt’s charitable efforts to raise funds for brain tumor research.

Ashley McWilliams, from Brain Tumour Research, emphasized the critical need for increased investment in brain tumor research to improve outcomes and develop effective treatments. Encouraging others to contribute to fundraising initiatives, McWilliams stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to combat the impact of brain tumors on children and families.