Dublin mother used flashlight to detect son’s cancer

A mother from Dublin is sharing her story to encourage other parents to check their baby’s eyes with a flashlight. Charlene Koekemoer noticed something unusual about her nine-week-old son, Taigh. During a check-up in 2017, a nurse thought there might be a mass in his eye, but a doctor dismissed it. Charlene didn’t feel right about the doctor’s assessment. Using her phone's flashlight, she shone it into Taigh’s eye and saw a circular reflection in his pupil. This prompted her to take him to an emergency GP, where she felt her concerns were again downplayed. Trusting her instincts, she sought another doctor the following day. Taigh was soon admitted to Crumlin’s Children’s Hospital, where he was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a form of eye cancer. The tumor was already quite advanced, and doctors suggested that removing the eye was the best option to prevent further complications. Taigh underwent surgery in the UK on December 20, 2017. Charlene described the experience as heartbreaking but was relieved that the cancer was caught early. Fortunately, he didn’t need chemotherapy or laser treatment. At nine months old, he received his first prosthetic eye. Now seven years old, Taigh is set to get another prosthetic eye soon. His mother expressed worries about bullying, but Taigh is thriving and embraces his journey. He talks about his experience openly and has supportive teachers and friends. Charlene and her husband welcomed a second daughter, Faye, four years later. Due to Taigh’s medical history, they ensured Faye was checked for any issues. Thankfully, she is healthy. Charlene has thanked the Irish Cancer Society for its support, which helps Taigh attend a camp that he loves. She spoke ahead of Daffodil Day, encouraging donations to help those impacted by cancer in Ireland.