Egremont boy enjoys Christmas at home after brain tumour surgery

Charlie Reid, of Egremont, underwent two surgeries at the RVI in Newcastle earlier this year to remove a four-inch tumour that was discovered in the back of his head.

The West Lakes Academy pupil was left completely blind following the second surgery but he has a positive outlook and has adjusted well.

Recent tests have shown that the nerves in his eye have not been damaged so there is hope that his sight may return.

Charlie also receives regular brain scans which have shown no further growth in a tiny amount of tumour that was left behind following surgery.

Charlie’s dad, Howard Kirkbride said: “Charlie has been fine. He just gets on with it. He’s been spoilt this Christmas.

Charlie has been supported by his friends while adjusting to losing his sight (Image: Submitted)

“He goes to school three afternoons a week and he’s done a bit of P.E. He’s done cross-country and all his friends run with him. He’s got good mates. We’ve got loads of support.”

Around £20,000 has now been raised from various fundraisers to support Charlie in his recovery.

Bookwell Primary School in Egremont, which Charlie previously attended, has raised £4,000 after pupils completed a sponsored run.

Mr Kirkbride said: “I couldn’t believe there was £4,000. It’s great. Charlie is humbled.”

Charlie presented with a cheque for £4,000 by Russell Hardy, head teacher at Bookwell Primary School in Egremont (Image: Submitted)

Marathon Man, Gary McKee, also ran a marathon to help raise money for Charlie and a sponsored spinathon took place at Wath Brow Hornets Club.

A fundraising event was held at the Falcon Club in Egremont, which was organsied by Charlie’s sisters and John and Allison Maxwell, whose daughter Danica, of Egremont, died in 2010 after battling a brain tumour.

A New Year’s Eve dip and a sponsored bike ride at Whinlatter are due to take place.