Oliver was diagnosed with a low-grade optic pathway glioma at the age of four. Although not cancer, the tumour’s deep central midbrain position made complete removal impossible, and treatment is focussed on controlling its slow growth and spread. Oliver is thus living with a chronic, life-altering condition requiring repeated surgical and medical treatment throughout his childhood. He has already undergone four neurosurgical operations, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, in an effort to keep the tumour under control. He recently suffered a stroke and is receiving experimental targeted systemic treatment. These events have required additional hospitalisations and recurring neurological and psychological challenges. In reality, children like Oliver deserve priority recovery support to maintain both their potential and a quality childhood. Whilst controlling Oliver’s tumour remains a priority, it is equally important that his developmental, educational and rehabilitation needs are not overlooked.
Oliver would greatly benefit from access to an integrated neurorehabilitation and neuroendocrine recovery pathway running alongside his oncology surveillance and treatment. This approach would protect his neurological recovery, intellectual and physical maturation, psychological wellbeing, educational progress and quality of life. In the meantime, Oliver and his family are active members of the Success community and Success is supporting their plans and choice of secondary school. They attend the family picnics and zoo trips, the annual conference, contribute their experiences and stories to BraveHearts magazine, and participate in our therapy programmes. Oliver, in particular, is thoroughly enjoying his weekly, supervised on-line neurophysiotherapy through Success’ innovative games-based Digital Therapy Programme. This is helping him engage in rehabilitation in a way that is both accessible and motivating.
