A ROUTINE eye test at Specsavers Colwyn Bay has led to life-saving treatment for a local 10-year-old, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour.
When Rhea Hamlet-Jolley visited the Bay View Shopping Centre store on 4 August with her dad, Anthony, optometrist Rhian Porter identified abnormalities in her optic discs. She immediately referred Rhea for an emergency appointment at Glan Clwyd Hospital, from where she was transferred to the ophthalmology department at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool the following day.
Just days later, on 8 August, Rhea underwent her first brain surgery after specialists discovered a tumour. Following a second surgery on 19 September at Alder Hey, Rhea now faces six weeks of radiotherapy in Manchester, which could mean her family spending Christmas in hospital.
Rhea’s dad, Anthony, says: ‘As parents of six children, aged between five months and 14 years old, the past few months have been incredibly tough, both emotionally and financially. What started as a routine eye test turned out to be life-saving for Rhea.
‘We cannot thank Specsavers Colwyn Bay enough for their care and swift action. This experience has shown us the vital importance of regular eye tests – they truly can make all the difference.’
The family has received support from the team at Specsavers Colwyn Bay, who launched a GoFundMe page to help with expenses. The store has also organised a toy collection to bring festive cheer to the children this Christmas.
Andrew Deeley, optician director says: ‘At Specsavers Colwyn Bay, we’re proud to provide essential eye care to our community. Rhea’s story is a reminder of the critical role regular eye tests play in detecting potentially life-threatening conditions early.
‘We’re also deeply committed to supporting Rhea and her family through this difficult time. By fundraising and encouraging donations, we hope to ease their burden and show them the community is behind them.’
