Sol, a 13-month-old boy, is gearing up for a significant surgery next week to eliminate the final remnants of a rare form of sarcoma cancer lodged in his brain.
Affectionately dubbed “Super Sol” for his resilient spirit, the little fighter has captured hearts within his community.
Sol’s journey began last summer when his parents, Becky Flower and Damien Stephens, noticed issues with his vision. Following a diagnosis of Primitive Myxoid Mesenchymal tumour, doctors informed them that Sol is among the first worldwide to encounter this cancer in his eye.
The journey has been arduous, with Sol undergoing the removal of his left eye and enduring numerous tests, surgeries, and chemotherapy sessions.
Becky Flower, 34, shared with BBC Radio Cornwall the staggering toll: “He’s had 28 GAs (General Anaesthetics), 41 nights in hospital, I think they’ve taken his blood over 130 times. It’s pretty nuts when you think I’m 34 and I’ve only been put under twice.”
Despite the challenges, Sol’s resilience shines through. Mrs. Flower described him as “our little superstar,” noting his boundless energy and infectious smiles, even after returning from chemotherapy sessions.
Next week’s surgery, set to take place in Bristol, holds significant promise for Sol’s continued recovery. However, it comes with immense complexity, as the tumour is entangled around a crucial brain artery.
Damien Stephens, 43, Sol’s father, emphasized the high stakes of the operation, stating, “They have said to us unless they can get one hundred per cent, they are not going to go in. So it is all or nothing.”
The family has received an outpouring of support from their community, both emotionally and financially. Contributions have helped alleviate the burden of the additional expenses associated with Sol’s treatment, estimated at £1,000 per month.
Among the heartwarming gestures of support is a family friend’s commitment to run 5km daily throughout September, raising funds that have exceeded three times the initial target.
