Tragic farewell to a cheeky, bright soul: Nine-year-old Thomas Pearce passed away from a brain tumour just nine months after his diagnosis. His mum, Louise, noticed that Thomas, full of life and humour, began showing unusual symptoms early in 2024. Though initially subtle—like a slight tremor and slow speech—these signs soon evolved. Thomas began to forget day-to-day things, like half-term and even how to swim.
Louise followed her instincts and took Thomas to Poole Hospital, where a CT scan exposed the shocking reality: a mass on his brain. Following further testing at Southampton Hospital, a heart-breaking diagnosis arrived—Thomas had a high-grade glioma. Despite an arduous battle involving weeks of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the Pearce family was devastated to learn Thomas’ cancer had aggressively spread.
On 16th November 2024, surrounded by love, Thomas passed away at home. His mother reflects on their unbearable loss, saying, “A brain tumour didn’t kill our son—the lack of funding and treatment did.” Determined to honour Thomas and fuel change, Louise and her husband, Gary, are participating in the Brain Tumour Research New Forest Walk of Hope to raise awareness for childhood cancer.
In his memory, join this crucial cause as Louise implores, “Too many children and adults are dying—not because their cancer is incurable, but because it’s under-researched and underfunded.” Let’s unite this Childhood Cancer Awareness Month to support events like the Walk of Hope and push for essential funding and research. 🌈
[Image of Thomas: smiling boy full of life, wearing a turtle-themed t-shirt, Image courtesy of the Brain Tumour Research Charity]
✨ Join the movement for change and support Louise and Gary’s Walk of Hope! #ForThomas #BrainTumourAwareness #ChildhoodCancerAwareness
[Details for the JustGiving page or donation link] 💙