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The Tragic Story of Luke Poga: A Life Lost to a Brain Tumor
Luke Poga, a nine-year-old schoolboy, lost his battle with a deadly brain tumor in August 2024. His journey began with a series of subtle changes that initially went unnoticed by his family. Luke’s weight doubled over 16 months, a transformation his mother, Sam, initially attributed to a lack of exercise during the lockdown period. However, as Luke began experiencing sore eyes, Sam sought medical advice, which led to a devastating diagnosis—an inoperable high-grade glioma. This rare and aggressive brain tumor would ultimately claim Luke’s life just three years after it was discovered.
A Change in Appearance: A Silent Warning Sign
Luke’s rapid weight gain and change in body shape were the first noticeable signs of his illness. Sam, a church volunteer and mother of two, recalled how Luke, once slim and petite, began wearing clothes meant for older children when he was just six years old. When Luke returned to school in July 2021, parents and teachers commented on his noticeable weight gain. While Sam initially dismissed it as a result of reduced physical activity during the pandemic, she grew increasingly concerned as Luke began complaining of sore eyes. This symptom prompted a visit to the optician, who referred him to the ophthalmology department at Barnet Hospital. An MRI scan later revealed the heartbreaking truth—a large, diffused brain tumor that could not be surgically removed.
A Mother’s Grief and the Fight for Life
The diagnosis left Sam and her family shattered. Luke underwent a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, which initially showed promising results. He lost weight, and his eyesight remained intact, allowing the family to cherish moments of normalcy amidst the relentless medical appointments. However, by early 2024, doctors delivered the devastating news that Luke’s condition had become terminal. Despite the prognosis, Luke fought courageously for months, surpassing the expectations of his medical team. Sadly, the aggressive nature of the tumor proved too much, and Luke passed away at Watford General Hospital on August 26, 2024.
A Community United in Grief and Hope
The loss of Luke was not the only tragedy to strike his school community. Just months later, in December 2024, a 10-year-old classmate at Summerswood Primary School in Borehamwood also succumbed to a brain tumor. These heartbreaking losses have inspired the school to take action, with over 300 students, staff, and parents embarking on a walking challenge to raise funds for Brain Tumor Research. Participants aim to walk 10,000 steps daily throughout February, a gesture of love and solidarity that honors Luke’s memory and continues his fight against the disease. Sam, who is participating in the challenge, hopes to raise awareness about the severity of brain tumors and the urgent need for more research funding.
The Alarming Reality of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors are often referred to as the “silent killer” because their symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions. In Luke’s case, a change in body shape and eye discomfort were the first warning signs. According to Dr. Karen Noble, Director of Research, Policy, and Innovation at Brain Tumor Research, the symptoms of brain tumors can vary widely, ranging from headaches and vision problems to changes in personality. What makes brain tumors particularly devastating is their disproportionate impact on young lives. Brain tumors kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer, yet they receive only 1% of the national cancer research funding in the UK. This stark reality has fueled Sam’s determination to advocate for greater investment in research to find kinder treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
A Legacy of Love and the Fight for a Cure
Luke’s story has left an indelible mark on his community and beyond. His bravery and resilience have inspired countless individuals to join the fight against brain tumors. Sam, alongside the students and staff of Summerswood Primary School, is walking to honor Luke’s memory and to ensure that no other family has to endure the pain of losing a loved one to this devastating disease. As Sam shared, “Until you’re experiencing it, you don’t know about brain tumors.” Her journey is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the enduring hope for a future where brain tumors no longer claim young lives. Together, they are taking steps toward a brighter tomorrow, one where a cure is within reach.
