Toddler’s Tonsillitis Misdiagnosis Leads to Leukaemia Battle

A two-year-old boy, Olsen Sagers, has been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer after what was initially believed to be “constant tonsillitis.” His condition deteriorated significantly, leaving him unable to walk and prompting urgent medical intervention.

Olsen first exhibited symptoms of persistent tonsillitis and a fever in March 2025. His family doctor prescribed multiple courses of antibiotics, totaling around eight, but by July, his health had declined to the point where he could no longer walk. His mother, Rebecca Jennings, 26, described the experience as “scary and confusing,” leading her to insist on further testing.

Diagnosis and Treatment Begin

On July 9, 2025, after a referral to Worcestershire Hospital, Olsen underwent a blood test. The following day, he received a diagnosis of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia—a type of cancer that primarily affects children and young people. This diagnosis came as a shock to Rebecca, who had suspected something was amiss but never imagined it would be cancer.

Shortly after his diagnosis, on July 12, Olsen commenced chemotherapy at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. The first course of treatment lasted four weeks and included intravenous medication and steroids. His treatment plan also involves regular lumbar punctures under general anaesthetic to administer chemotherapy directly into his spine.

Family Struggles and Community Support

Olsen’s health challenges have had a profound impact on his family. He has lost his appetite due to the treatment and has been fitted with a feeding tube to ensure he receives adequate nutrition. Despite the difficult circumstances, medical professionals have informed Rebecca that there is a 90 percent chance of Olsen achieving complete remission, although treatment may continue for up to three years.

The emotional and financial toll has led Rebecca to resign from her job as a pub supervisor, adding to the family’s challenges. In response, Olsen’s grandfather, David Warren, 67, has set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for both Olsen’s treatment and local cancer support initiatives, specifically the Children of Worcester and Herefordshire Cancer Fund.

In a show of solidarity, David and his son, Michael Warren, 29, are participating in a 25 km run from Bristol to Bath on September 27, 2025, to further support their fundraising efforts. Rebecca expressed gratitude for the community’s outpouring of support, stating, “The response has been incredible, and it means the world.”

As Olsen continues his battle against leukaemia, his family remains hopeful and committed to providing him with the care he needs. To contribute to his cause, donations can be made on the GoFundMe page established by David Warren.