A HEARTBROKEN aunt has spoken of her family’s devastation after her two-year-old nephew was diagnosed with brain and spine cancer.

Doctors at Southend Hospital found a large tumour on the brain of little Henry Hall on February 10.

When he was sent to Great Ormond Street Hospital, a further MRI scan gave the family the devastating news that he had a further three tumour spots on his spine.

Henry’s aunt, Rudi Jordan, said he is very tired and is having to relearn movements like swallowing and hand eye coordination.

His parents, Louise Reed and Cameron Hall of Great Wakering, are taking it in turns to be with Henry at the hospital.

Echo: Poorly Henry and his mum Louise Poorly Henry and his mum Louise

Rudi said: “The surgeon managed to remove 95 per cent of the tumour so that’s brilliant. But the tumour branched off and they couldn’t remove those parts. He also has three tumour spots in his spine that the medical team at GOSH think they will get rid of with chemotherapy.

“He’s recovering from his operation right now but will soon be starting chemotherapy and radiotherapy. How much and for how long I don’t know as they are still waiting results of what type of tumour it is.”

She said the family are hoping to get Henry home next week before his treatment starts.

Rudi added: “Henry is a beautiful boy inside and out. He’s so strong.

“He’s very tired and is learning to do things like swallowing, hand eye coordination again but his mummy is doing a great job of helping him and he’s making great progress.”

She has started a fundraiser so Henry’s parents can stay by his side during chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment without the added worry of work and paying bills.

Rudi, who live in Dumfries, Scotland said: “My brother Cameron is a brilliant dedicated dad. He and Henry are thick as thieves.

“Louise is an amazing creative mummy. She’s always doing fun things with the kids. They are both wonderful parents.

“I set up the fundraiser as my brother is the only one working. Louise is a brilliant stay at home mum. My brother has left work right now on compassionate leave and has no idea how long for as Henry has a long road ahead of him and he wants to be there every step of the way.

“Because of Covid they are taking it in turns to be with Henry at hospital so the other parent will be at home looking after Henry’s big sister Sophia and little brother Theodore.

“I stay in Dumfries in Scotland so I feel so helpless. With restrictions I can’t head down there to be with them or help them for a while. This fundraiser is my way of helping. They have enough on their minds - they don’t need the added worry of bills. They can concentrate fully on Henry and getting him better.

Rudi has raised more than £7,900.

She added: “Cameron and Louise are overwhelmed by the donations, love and best wishes they have received. We all are. We can’t thank everyone enough.

“Money from donations that aren’t used to help Henry and his family will be going to Great Ormond Street Hospital and children’s brain tumour research fund.”

Rudi added: “Henry will beat this.”

Louise has set up an Instagram page, @holdinghenryshand, where she’s posting updates and photos of Henry.

To donate, visit: https://uk.gofundme.com/f/please-help-henrys-mummy-daddy-look-after-him