Six-year-old from Leicestershire dies nine months after medulloblastoma diagnosis

A 6-year-old boy from Leicestershire has died after a malignant brain tumour was discovered following months of what his family described as seemingly minor symptoms.

Tay Kurtul began experiencing blurred vision in May 2023 and initially had a routine eye test that did not allay his parents' concerns. In the weeks that followed he became increasingly fatigued, more emotional than usual and began suffering stomach aches, before suddenly becoming dizzy and unsteady on his feet, prompting his mother to seek a second medical opinion.

A CT scan carried out within days of the GP visit revealed a mass on Tay’s brain. Subsequent testing, including an MRI, confirmed medulloblastoma, a malignant tumour that develops in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance, movement and muscle coordination.

Surgeons removed approximately 99% of the tumour, and Tay subsequently underwent multiple rounds of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Despite treatment, he died on Feb. 9, 2024, about nine months after his first appointment with a general practitioner, his family said.

His mother, Laura, 38, said in a statement that the family was devastated. “Words will never describe how we feel,” she said.

Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumour in children but remains rare overall. Symptoms can vary depending on tumour size and location; in children they may include headache, vomiting, changes in vision, balance problems and behavioural changes. Prompt evaluation and imaging are used to diagnose the condition, and treatment often involves a combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Tay’s family described his early symptoms as those of a tired child juggling school and after-school activities, which initially made a serious diagnosis less apparent. Medical professionals frequently advise parents to seek further evaluation when a child’s symptoms are persistent, progressive or accompanied by neurological signs such as dizziness, loss of coordination or changes in vision.

Family members said they hoped sharing Tay’s story would raise awareness of childhood brain tumours and encourage other parents to pursue medical advice if they notice worrying or persistent symptoms. No further details about funeral arrangements were released.