Riley’s Journey: Finding Positivity and Fun Through Camp Quality’s Cancer Programs

Riley was diagnosed at 8 months old with retinoblastoma, a type of childhood cancer that develops in the retina of the eye. Mum, Demi, said it came as a huge shock. “We actually didn’t think anything was wrong. We thought she just had a lazy eye that she would grow out of, but then a physio told us to get it checked.”

After doctors examined her eye, they discovered a large tumour in her right eye and a few smaller tumours in her left. Within days, they told her parents that they would need to remove her right eye. Just one week later, Riley underwent the procedure. Following the surgery, she faced six months of chemotherapy, during which she lost her hair and was often tired and nauseous. Early in the treatment journey, someone in her team mentioned Camp Quality’s services and programs, and Demi immediately registered.

Mum, Demi, says, “Family Camp has meant we could have a break from all of the hospital trips and enjoy time as a family to reconnect and find some time for Riley to have some fun and to be a kid.”

The family attended their first Family Camp at Swan River. “It was so much fun. Riley loved it, and it was a great chance for us to meet other parents who understood our journey. Even though eye cancer isn’t as common, there was still a strong sense of community among the families.”
“This journey isn’t something most people can relate to, but with this community, you feel understood. We have this wonderful group we can connect with from time to time, and they just know exactly what we’re going through.”

By November 2022, Riley completed her active treatment and now goes for MRI scans every six weeks to check for any new retinoblastoma signs. These ongoing checkups help ensure she remains healthy and free of any new tumours related to eye cancer.

Riley has since started dance classes, and she’s made many new friends. “She missed out on socialising with other kids during her treatment. Now, we’re helping her get used to being out and about, at parks, shopping centres, and more, so she can interact and grow socially. It’s amazing to see her develop and find new ways to be herself again.”

Riley’s first dance concert took place in December 2023, where Demi was thrilled to see her daughter’s confidence and motor skills shine. “She did all the moves on stage in front of everyone, and I’m very excited for her next one.”

This year, the family welcomed baby Oliver, and Riley is thrilled to be a big sister. They can’t wait to go on more Camp Quality Camps and Family Fun Days, exploring new places and making new friends. These events also give Demi and Tom a chance to meet other supportive parents, strengthening the sense of community.

We rely on the generosity of everyday Australians to support families like Riley’s.