Father Urges Vigilance After Son’s Jaw Swelling Leads to Cancer Diagnosis

The parent of a seven-year-old boy diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma after experiencing a wobbly tooth and swollen jaw is urging other parents to remain alert and advocate for their children’s health. James Kreyling, 40, and his wife Charlotte, 47, from Hadleigh, Essex, took their son Freddie to the dentist in May 2023 after he complained of discomfort in his mouth.

After a month of tests and antibiotics, during which Freddie’s jaw swelled significantly, he was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, an aggressive form of blood cancer that primarily affects children. Fortunately, Freddie has been responding well to chemotherapy treatment, and his parents are optimistic he will be “fighting fit” by autumn.

James highlighted the remarkable support from his colleagues at the East of England Ambulance Service, who are organising a charity skydive for Great Ormond Street Hospital in Freddie’s honour. “You hear about the hospital, but until you or one of your family has actually been treated there, you don’t realise how special it is,” James stated in an interview. He described the hospital as a supportive community and expressed deep gratitude for the care Freddie has received.

Charlotte added, “Listen to your gut and advocate fiercely for your child, even when it’s uncomfortable. Once things start moving, hold on to hope – children are stronger than you think, and you are too.”

The Kreyling family’s journey began when Freddie first mentioned a “wobbly tooth”. James and Charlotte found it unusual that the tooth was an adult one located at the back of his mouth. The situation escalated when they noticed swelling inside his mouth, prompting an immediate visit to the dentist, who conducted X-rays and prescribed antibiotics. However, when Freddie’s condition did not improve, a follow-up appointment revealed that his mouth appeared “very abnormal”.

They were referred to Broomfield Hospital, where stronger antibiotics were administered, and a biopsy was eventually performed. “They removed his adult tooth because there was a risk of him swallowing it and suffocating,” James recalled. Subsequent biopsy results confirmed that Freddie had Burkitt lymphoma, which affects around 250 people annually in the UK, according to Lymphoma Action. Most children treated for this type of cancer go on to make a full recovery.

Describing the alarming rapid swelling of Freddie’s face, James said, “Over the month or so between seeing the first dentist and actually being diagnosed, the right side of his face swelled like a tennis ball.” Despite this, Freddie did not find the lump painful, although it made eating difficult.

Freddie began his first round of chemotherapy the day after his diagnosis. James noted that doctors had caught the cancer “early-ish”, which provided some reassurance. Currently, the tumour has reduced in size by approximately 60 percent. James shared that the initial round of chemotherapy was challenging for Freddie, who developed mouth ulcers that limited his ability to eat and drink. To assist with his nutrition, a feeding tube was inserted.

Despite the challenges, Freddie remains active and engaged. He enjoys rugby, tennis, and has been learning the martial art Wing Chun. Technology has also played a crucial role in keeping him connected to his friends during treatment. “He’s missing his friends, but he can still interact with them through his iPad,” James explained.

The family has received additional support from charities such as Gold Geese, Cyclists Fighting Cancer, and Young Lives vs Cancer. In a show of solidarity, James and Charlotte’s colleagues in the ambulance service are undertaking a charity skydive, aiming to raise funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital. The fundraiser has already surpassed £5,000 (€5,900).

James reflected on the overwhelming support from friends and family, stating, “We’re never going to be able to repay our friends and family for the love and support that they’ve shown us.” He advised other parents facing similar situations to maintain a positive outlook, as children often respond to encouragement. “Keeping him positive is half the battle,” he noted, referencing their use of reward charts to motivate Freddie through his treatment.

As the Kreyling family navigates this challenging journey, they remain hopeful for Freddie’s recovery and are committed to raising awareness about the importance of listening to children’s health concerns.