**Parents Urge Vigilance After Son’s Wobbly Tooth Reveals Rare Cancer**
A seemingly routine visit to the dentist for a loose tooth led to a life-altering discovery for the Kreyling family from Hadleigh, Essex, as their seven-year-old son, Freddie, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. His parents, James and Charlotte Kreyling, are now encouraging others to trust their instincts and listen closely to their children’s concerns, however minor they might seem.
Freddie’s ordeal began in May, when he reported a “wobbly tooth” at the back of his mouth, rather unusual for a permanent adult tooth. Early the next day, swelling inside his mouth worried his parents enough to arrange a dental appointment. Despite an initial X-ray and a course of antibiotics, Freddie’s symptoms worsened, with his jaw eventually swelling to the size of a tennis ball.
Over the course of several weeks and amid mounting concern, Freddie was referred to Broomfield Hospital. There, further tests led to stronger antibiotics and, with continued abnormal swelling, a biopsy. Following the procedure, his loose adult tooth was removed amid concerns he could accidentally inhale it. The full extent of the situation became clear when Freddie was transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, where he was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma—a rare and fast-growing blood cancer.
Despite the shocking diagnosis, Freddie’s family has found some relief in the fact that this type of cancer, although aggressive, is known to respond well to treatment if caught early. Support from the hospital, charities, and the family’s network has proved invaluable. “You hear about Great Ormond Street Hospital, but until your own family is treated there you can’t grasp how special it is,” reflected James, adding that the hospital’s supportive atmosphere was like “a big community”.
Charlotte has also spoken out about the importance of advocating for your child. “Listen to your gut and fight for your child, even if it’s uncomfortable,” she advised, highlighting the resilience of both children and parents when facing such challenges. The couple agree that, once treatment begins, maintaining hope is crucial.
The impact of the illness on Freddie and his family has been profound. A keen sportsman, Freddie has had to pause his passion for rugby, golf, and the Chinese martial art, Wing Chun, as well as miss out on regular school and Scouts activities. Nevertheless, technology has bridged the gap, allowing him to stay connected with friends and siblings. The hospital’s in-house school and entertainment options have also played a crucial role in keeping his spirits up.
Freddie began chemotherapy the day after his diagnosis, embarking on what would be four intensive rounds. Halfway through, his family has already seen a 60% reduction in the tumour’s size—a promising sign. The side effects have been difficult, especially mouth ulcers limiting food intake, which led to the insertion of a feeding tube. “He’s usually full of beans,” James said, expressing hope that before long Freddie will return to the rugby pitch.
The Kreyling family have also received invaluable support from the East of England Ambulance Service, where both James and Charlotte have long-serving careers. Moved by Freddie’s journey, colleagues are fundraising with a 10,000ft charity skydive, with all proceeds directed to Great Ormond Street Hospital. The initiative has already raised over £5,000, symbolising the outpouring of solidarity from friends and family during this testing time.
James and Charlotte continue to face each day with unwavering positivity—a strategy they recommend to all parents at the centre of a health crisis. “Children really do mirror the mood and energy of those surrounding them,” James explained. The family uses reward charts to boost Freddie’s morale for small but important achievements, like taking medicine or being polite to medical staff. “Having something to look forward to is so important for Freddie,” he added. “It lifts his spirits and keeps him motivated through tough days.”
Their journey, while daunting, underscores the vital message of vigilance and hope. The Kreyling family’s experience reminds us all of the importance of trusting our instincts and cherishing community support during life’s unexpected trials. The campaign for Freddie continues, shining a light on the value of early intervention, kindness, and resilience. The charity skydive raising funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital in Freddie’s honour can be found on GoFundMe.