Toddler’s Eye Test Leads to Cancer Diagnosis, Family Fights Back

The life of two-year-old Harper Gibson took a traumatic turn when an eye test revealed an aggressive brain tumour. The family’s nightmare began in Staffordshire, United Kingdom, when Harper’s parents, George and Laura Gibson, noticed that their daughter appeared unsteady on her feet and disoriented. Despite multiple visits to their general practitioner and emergency room, they were reassured that Harper’s symptoms were due to routine infections.

Earlier this year, Harper experienced bouts of tonsillitis and ear infections. Her parents grew increasingly concerned as her condition did not improve. “As parents, you just know when something isn’t right with your child,” said George Gibson, who serves as the deputy general manager at The Chase Golf and Country Club. “We couldn’t let it go.”

It was during a routine visit to an optician that the situation escalated. The optician noticed something unusual and promptly referred Harper for further testing. A CT scan conducted on August 11, 2023, at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton revealed a mass on Harper’s brain. The urgency of the situation led to her immediate transfer to Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

At Birmingham, the family met Harper’s surgeon, Mr. William Lo, who provided crucial reassurance amid the chaos. “For the first time, we felt there was no need to panic,” George recalled. On August 14, Harper underwent a successful surgery to remove the tumour, which was later confirmed as a high-risk and aggressive form of cancer.

The emotional toll of the diagnosis became apparent to the family when they received the news on August 22. “It felt like the world stopped in that moment,” George said. “To be told that your little girl, who should be carefree and full of life, is instead facing a fight for her life was devastating.”

Harper is now undergoing an intensive treatment plan that includes chemotherapy lasting six to nine months. Initially, she will receive five cycles of chemotherapy, followed by a stem cell transplant and a high-dose chemotherapy cycle. Alongside these treatments, she will require regular MRI scans, blood and platelet transfusions, and check-ups. George described the process of having a feeding tube fitted as “incredibly difficult to watch,” but praised Harper’s courage throughout.

To support Harper during her prolonged hospital stay, a fundraising page has been established, which has raised more than £11,000 to date. This initiative aims to provide for Harper post-treatment and help her return to some normality after her ordeal. George expressed gratitude for the overwhelming kindness from strangers: “The generosity of people, many of whom we’ve never met, has left us speechless.”

As Harper faces the prospect of missing significant milestones, including her third birthday and Christmas, George and Laura remain committed to being strong for their daughter. They are taking turns staying with Harper in the hospital while using Ronald McDonald House for accommodation. “Both mine and Laura’s workplaces have been incredibly supportive,” George noted, appreciating the understanding from their employers during this challenging time.

In reflecting on their journey, George offered advice to other parents: “You know your child better than anyone. If you’re not happy with the answers you’re getting, don’t give up.” He emphasized the importance of advocating for children who may not articulate their feelings clearly. “You have to be their spokesperson and fight for their corner.”

As the family navigates this challenging path, they hold onto hope for Harper’s recovery while cherishing every moment together. The community’s support continues to play a vital role in their journey, reminding them that they are not alone in this fight.