A mother from Midlothian has shared the remarkable story of how a minor fingernail infection in her newborn son led to a life-saving brain tumour diagnosis at just 11 days old.
Joey Sharp, from Penicuik, was diagnosed with glioblastoma—an aggressive form of brain cancer—in 2020. His mother, Sam Sharp, an orthopaedic nurse, had already noticed concerning symptoms including persistent jaundice, weight loss, and intermittent twitching or spasms. However, it was the investigation into a “tiny” infection on Joey’s finger that ultimately led doctors to perform the ultrasound scan that discovered the tumour.
The story is being highlighted this September to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, as charities call for increased investment into research for the condition.
A mother’s persistence
Following the initial discovery, Joey’s medical journey was intensive. He underwent three major brain surgeries and nine rounds of chemotherapy to combat the tumour. His mother’s professional background as a nurse meant she was acutely aware of the subtle signs that something was wrong, though the specific path to diagnosis was unexpected.
The glioblastoma diagnosis in such a young infant is rare. Despite the aggressive nature of the cancer, Joey has survived and is now six years old. Mrs Sharp has praised the medical teams involved in his care while highlighting the need for parents to trust their instincts when they notice unusual symptoms in their children.
According to the charity Brain Tumour Research, symptoms of brain tumours in infants can be varied and difficult to pinpoint. They may include:
- Persistent jaundice
- Difficulty feeding or significant weight loss
- Intermittent twitching, spasms, or seizures
National research funding
The Sharp family is now supporting a national campaign to increase government investment in brain tumour research.
As part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, families across the UK are sharing their experiences to ensure that both the public and medical professionals are better equipped to recognise early warning signs, which in cases like Joey’s, can be vital for survival.