Look at that smile! Oscar back home after operations

Still smiling, Oscar Crane-Rawlinson in hospital this week before he was allowed to return home. Picture: Courtesy of Oscar's family (Image: Archant)

After enduring five operations, countless setbacks and almost two months in hospital in his fight against cancer, there was joy this week as Oscar Crane-Rawlinson returned home.

The battling 10-month-old was back in Lowestoft on Wednesday night, still smiling after his traumatic ordeal. And now as his recovery continues at home, the community has been praised for rallying round to show its support for Oscar's family.

Parents Tessa Crane and Zac Rawlinson were faced with their worst nightmare last month after swelling on Oscar's fontanel was found, and a subsequent CT scan at the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston showed he had fluid around his brain.

An emergency trip to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge followed, and in the early hours of April 4, the family was told a cancerous tumour had to be removed from Oscar's head.

Five operations have followed, along with numerous complications including soaring temperatures, increased blood levels, Norovirus and infections.

With specialist equipment needed to aid his future development, a fundraising page was started to help raise the money.

The Helping Baby Oscar appeal was launched on the family's behalf by Elaine High. With £1,500 having been raised in the past month on the GoFundMe page, the fundraising is set to continue to help Oscar's recovery.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs High said: 'On top of the cancer and everything this little boy has had to deal with, he has battled back and is still sat there managing to be happy and smiling.

'The family has been through so much, it's so great that Oscar is home – and they are so happy.'

Thanking people for all their support and rallying around Oscar, the family expressed gratitude to the community. Mrs High said: 'They are so positive now after what has been a really traumatic time. They are now looking forwards, and by having Oscar home things are looking up.

'Oscar has proven to be so strong, he is such a little fighter. The family are in awe of him – Oscar is their little trooper. People taken him to their hearts, and there is so much love behind him.'

Fundraising events

'The support from the community has been amazing.'

That was the reaction of Oscar's family this week as the public was thanked for their generous support.

Donations have been received from the Taylor High Memorial Fund, the charity cycle challenge team, Blacksheep Cricket Club's charity account, the Oscar Reynolds Fund, a collection from customers at Hollingsworth Road Nisa store and many donations online through the GoFundMe page.

This Sunday, May 27, from 2pm, The Edge Of Town – formerly The Prince Albert pub in Park Road, Lowestoft – will host a fundraising event for Oscar's appeal.

There will be music and entertainment from K J Kyle, a barbecue and raffle.

Donations of prizes are still being accepted at the pub, or via 01502 568822.

Mrs High said: 'Oscar's family are overwhelmed by the support that has been shown. It has really touched them how people have taken to little Oscar and his battle.'

Visit uk.gofundme.com/g0ro9s to your pledge support.