A Mackay Mother’s Instincts Save Her Baby Boy’s Life

A quick photograph was all it took for Annie Tomkinson to notice something that would change her family’s life forever.

She was at home in Mackay, enjoying a quiet afternoon with her newborn son, Lijah, when what appeared to be a golden reflection in his eye caught her attention.

“He just looked the right way and at the right angle, and I managed to get a photo of it,” Annie recalled.

Annie’s maternal instincts kicked in, and she wasted no time. Soon after, she showed the photo to her husband, Jay, and decided to consult a specialist…Within days, their lives were turned upside down.

At just six weeks old, scans revealed a tumour at the back of Lijah’s eye, and baby Lijah was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer affecting the eye.

On a Friday, they received the initial findings. By Monday, the diagnosis was confirmed, and by Wednesday, the family was aboard a plane, on their way to the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane to begin treatment.

“It happened all quite quickly,” Jay shared.

“From the Friday, then diagnosis on the Monday…and then we were on our way to Brisbane on the Wednesday.”

Lijah has since started chemotherapy, and despite the odds, his parents say that he is a “little fighter,” and “is responding very well to treatment.”

The family now makes regular trips to Brisbane for Lijah’s treatment, however, the expenses and time away from work have added immense strain. Yet, through it all, Annie and Jay remain focused on spreading awareness about retinoblastoma.

“I can’t imagine what life would look like if we hadn’t seen it,” Annie said, emphasising the importance of acting quickly and seeking medical advice if something seems unusual.

Relating to the Tomkinson family, one local shared, “My daughter was diagnosed with same cancer 15 years ago, but hers had spread to optic nerve luckily it was only one eye…She is now 15 years cancer free.”

Their story has touched hearts across the community after a GoFundMe page was set up to help with travel expenses, medical costs, and lost income. The family has already raised nearly $17,000, along with receiving multiple words of hope and encouragement on their Facebook page called “Lijah’s Journey.”

The funds raised will allow Jay to take time off work to be with Annie and Lijah during this critical period. It will also help cover the costs of accommodation, meals, and the many other expenses that come with being away from home for their baby boy’s treatment.

The Tomkinson family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.

“We are truly grateful for the support the community has shown in this difficult time.”

For those who wish to support baby Lijah’s journey, donations can be made through their GoFundMe page: “Help Lijah Beat Retinoblastoma.”

Annie Tomkinson’s quick photo and sharp instincts led to a life-saving diagnosis for her six-week-old son, Lijah, who is now bravely battling retinoblastoma - a rare eye cancer.  Photo source: Lijah’s Journey

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