Mum's Warning to Parents: Trust Your Instincts Over Doctors' Diagnoses

After her daughter's surprise diagnosis with an inoperable brain tumour, Jackie Dunlop is urging parents to trust their instincts if they feel something is wrong with their child. Jackie's persistence in demanding further medical attention led to an MRI scan that revealed a large mass on Ava's brain, which was later confirmed as a high-grade glioblastoma. Despite the bleak prognosis, Ava outlived the predicted six to 12 months and passed away nearly two years later in April 2024, aged 12.

Key Takeaways:

• Jackie Dunlop's daughter Ava Nelson was initially diagnosed with a viral infection or gastric bug despite experiencing severe headaches and sickness for three weeks.
• Jackie's suspicions about Ava's health led her to push for further testing, which revealed a pressure on Ava's brain caused by a large mass.
• Ava was diagnosed with a high-grade glioblastoma, a type of brain tumour, and underwent emergency surgery, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
• Ava bravely endured 12 weeks of treatment, including a feeding tube after the treatment caused a rupture in her stomach.
• The family was given a terminal prognosis, but Jackie chose not to reveal this information to Ava, instead focusing on creating cherished memories with her daughter.
• Ava passed away nearly two years later in April 2024, aged 12, at Robin House Children's Hospice, where she had been receiving care.

Statistics:

• Ava experienced symptoms for three weeks before the correct diagnosis was made.
• The MRI scan revealed a large mass on Ava's brain, which was later confirmed as a high-grade glioblastoma.
• Ava underwent 12 weeks of simultaneous radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
• Ava needed a feeding tube after the treatment caused a rupture in her stomach.
• Ava passed away at the age of 12 with her loving parents and sisters by her side.

Sources:

• Glasgow Live: "Mum's warning to parents after daughter's brain tumour diagnosis"
• BBC News: "Girl, 12, who died from brain tumour remembered as 'wee warrior'"
• Herald Scotland: "Ava Nelson, 12, who died from brain tumour, was diagnosed after mum Jackie Dunlop pressed for further tests"