A young boy who has battled eye cancer has been awarded for his bravery, alongside his twin and his older sister who have supported him every step of the way.

Vinnie Chandler-Shaw, from Whitnell Court in Putney, was diagnosed with retinoblastoma (rb) when he was just eight months old.

The cancer affects the retina of children, predominantly those under six-years-old, and Vinnie had tumours in both his eyes.

He was treated at the Royal London Hospital, where doctors removed his left eye and he underwent chemotherapy to save his right.

Wandsworth Times:

Now three-years-old, Vinnie is fighting to live life to the full with the help of his twin sister Georgia and his older sister Delilah, who is 10.

His mum, Claire Chandler, said: "Ever since he was first diagnosed Vinnie has shown nothing but determination, strength, courage and bravery.

"All the way through the chemotherapy, and even when he had to have his eye removed, Vinnie stayed happy and upbeat. He fought a tremendous battle and helped pull me through the dark days with his fight and smile."

Vinnie has been named a CHECT Champion by the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT).

Ms Chandler also praised her two daughters, who received bravery awards with their brother at a ceremony on April 23.

She said: "Georgia was away from her twin and myself for long periods while Vinnie underwent treatment but she came through it all smiling as well. As for Delilah, her support has been invaluable. I can’t thank her enough for being so patient, helpful and understanding.

"For someone so young, she has shown remarkable maturity. I’m just so proud of all three of them."

The three siblings will receive a medal and a goody bag as well as a framed certificate.


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Patrick Tonks, chief executive of CHECT, said: "Vinnie, Georgia and Delilah have been through so much over the last three years but they’ve shown remarkable levels of courage and resilience.

"Rb causes an immense amount of upset and disruption but they have absolutely refused to let things get on top of them. They are thoroughly deserving champions."

Rb is a rare form of cancer, with about 50 cases per year.