Longford Little Blue Hero Rian Sutton: Rian’s little life is starting to come together again

Seven year old Rian Sutton from Lanesboro was diagnosed with Leukaemia on Christmas day 2022.

His mother Lorraine noticed that her son's health was declining. He was very tired and unwell and showed no signs of improving.

"It was the last thing we were expecting. He was sick two weeks before Christmas and my father in law was also sick and unfortunately he passed away on the 22nd with his funeral on Christmas Eve."

When Lorraine brought Rian to see the GP they rushed them straight to Crumlin.

After a few agonising hours, they were told the devastating news, Rian had cancer. They didn't know what type of cancer it was and further tests were needed.

"That was the hardest night I've ever put down in my life, everything is going through your head...what if he doesn't come out of it?”

At half 10 on Christmas morning, they were told it was Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and Rian had a tumour between his heart and lungs. Treatment would start immediately.

"He was brilliant throughout all his treatment, a warrior. But from a happy-go-lucky little boy, chemo has changed his temperament a bit. Hopefully when it's all out of his system he'll be back to himself. He's still so lovely and loves to give hugs."

Lorraine has two other kids, a 10 year old and 5 year old, and sadly Rian's twin passed away at birth, "I just thought I can't lose another one,” said Lorraine.

"The doctors reassured us it was very treatable, but it was extreme at the beginning. Rian was very sick. He was throwing up all the time and losing weight.

"We were powerless and it was out of our control. They were giving him poison to kill the poison inside him. There was no choice, it was that or death."

Caption: Honorary Garda Rian Sutton

Thankfully Rian, who loves teddys, Minecraft and computer games, is doing a lot better now. His treatment isn't as intense and he has been able to go back to school at Fermoyle National School in Lanesboro.

Lorraine said his little life is starting to come together again.

Staff in Crumlin recommended Little Blue Heroes to Lorraine and soon after a Garda convoy made its way to Crumlin with a little gift bag, a hat, a t-shirt and the all important honorary Garda uniform for brave Rian.

Lorraine said Rian loves Little Blue Heroes and loves all the dogs. Being involved in the book Operation Blue Light Heroes and getting his picture taken with his favourite toy, a creeper from Minecraft, was amazing for Rian who loved it so much he excitedly claimed "I'm in a book mammy".

As for Christmas this year, Lorraine said she is more grateful than ever to have a quiet family Christmas all together.

"The year went so fast and it could have been a lot worse, we still have him."