A pair of St Andrews brothers have been hailed for their team effort in tackling an extremely rare form of cancer.
Seven-year-old Euan Fleming had his left eye removed at the age of just nine months after being diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a cancer which affects the retina of children.
Helping the Lawhead Primary School pupil adjust to life with one eye has been older brother Robert, aged nine, who has provided his younger sibling with unrelenting support ever since.
Recognising the brotherly love between the pair, the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT) has named both of them as CHECT Champions, ambassadors for the charity as they continue to live life to the full.
“Euan went through four years of treatment before he was finally given the all clear in October 2014, and he was so brave throughout everything,” said mother Ellen Fleming.
“All told he made over 40 return journeys to Birmingham for treatment, receiving a general anaesthetic each time.
“Then there were the six rounds of chemotherapy, the laser surgery, radiotherapy, cryotherapy, two radioactive patches on his eye, blood transfusions and platelet transfusions, not to mention many nights spent in hospital isolation rooms.
“Despite everything he’s been through, Euan is a really positive boy with a great zest for life.
“He plays football, golf and tennis and is learning to play the violin.
“He also gives talks at school about his ‘magic eye’ and the treatment he received.
“Euan is very open with people about it all which I think has really helped him, and those around him.”
Retinoblastoma is extremely rare and can affect one or both eyes.
Predominantly found in youngsters under the age of six, survival rates of more than 95% are recorded if the condition is detected early enough.
Describing the support that Robert has provided his younger brother, Ellen continued: “ He was about to celebrate his third birthday when Euan was diagnosed.
“It was a lot for us all to take in, but especially difficult for Robert who was initially very confused.
“But he learned fast.
“He’s been a terrific help to his brother, always making sure he is safe and telling everyone how proud he is of Euan.”
Patrick Tonks, chief executive of CHECT, praised the brothers, saying: “Euan and Robert have been through so much over the last few years since Euan’s diagnosis, but together they’ve shown remarkable levels of courage and resilience.”
