Artemis’ Journey with Retinoblastoma
This is Artemis, our beautiful, strong, and brave little girl. She is full of life, laughter, and curiosity—our little explorer who amazes us every day with her resilience.
Our journey started in September when we noticed something different about her left eye. It looked slightly off, almost like a lazy eye. We went to the GP, who told us it was just that—a lazy eye—so we were referred to an optician and waited for an appointment.
As the weeks passed, we felt a growing sense of unease. Then, one day, her eye—once a bright blue—started turning almost black. That was the moment everything changed. The anxiety, the fear, the unknown. The nightmare was just beginning.
We went for an MRI and a series of scans, and that’s when we heard the words that changed everything: Retinoblastoma. A rare eye cancer. Her left eye was affected. We were in shock. Everything moved fast after that. We were referred to Birmingham, where Artemis underwent surgery to remove her eye. Those days were filled with fear, worry, and heartbreak. No parent is ever prepared to face something like this.
The waiting after surgery was unbearable, but then came a small relief—no chemotherapy was needed. It was a moment of gratitude in the middle of a storm. Artemis now wears a prosthetic eye, and she is adjusting to this new reality with a strength beyond her years.
Throughout this journey, we have been surrounded by incredible people who have supported us. The doctors in Dublin and Birmingham—thank you. Your care, kindness, and expertise gave Artemis the best chance. The Gavin Glynn Foundation has been an incredible support, and we cannot put into words how much that has meant to us.
We are now waiting for genetic test results to understand more about what this means for her future. But no matter what comes next, we know one thing—Artemis is a fighter. She has already faced a battle that no child should ever have to fight, and she has come through it stronger than ever.
To any other parent reading this—trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, push for answers. Early detection can save lives.
We are sharing Artemis’ journey to raise awareness of Retinoblastoma and to remind other families that they are not alone.
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