Noah’s tractor-powered ride to joy, healing and hope

At just nine months old, Noah was diagnosed with brain cancer — a fight he’s still bravely facing today. Thanks to Satan’s Little Helper, a ride-on tractor has become a source of therapy, motivation and joy.

Late last year, Aly noticed something wasn’t quite right with her baby boy, who suddenly stopped using his left arm.

“At first we thought maybe he’d pulled a muscle or slept funny,” she says. “We took him to an osteopath, who said she was worried it was neurological. We got him to the GP as soon as we could and, within two days, he was under general anaesthetic having a full-body MRI.”

The worst news

The results turned Aly’s world upside down.

“At just nine months old, they came and told us he had a brain tumour and, if we didn’t act immediately, he could die.”

What followed was a blur of emergency surgery and chemotherapy. Somehow, Noah and Aly made it home for Christmas. Now, over a year later, Noah is nearly two and remains on daily oral chemo. He’s doing well but the journey has left him with weakness in his left side, which affects everything from eating to playing.

“Noah was never able to learn to crawl. He still needs help eating and drinking, and day-to-day play is a challenge. He just can’t use his left arm like other kids can.”

Fun physio!

So, when Aly suggested a ride-on tractor would help bring her son joy – and encourage him to use both arms – Satan’s Little Helper jumped at the opportunity.

“Noah absolutely loves trucks, tractors and cars,” she says. “He watches videos of real tractors, especially when he’s taking his oral chemo. It helps him feel brave.”

Satan’s Little Helper delivered a green ride-on tractor and trailer that made Noah’s whole face light up.

“It was such a joy to our family to see Noah light up with excitement. Him realising it was just like what he sees on TV was amazing. After everything he’s been through, seeing him truly happy was so special.”

But the gift has done more than just make him smile.

“We’ve noticed that when he’s on the tractor, he tries to get his left hand over to grab the wheel. He hasn’t mastered control yet, but he keeps trying. It’s giving him motivation to use his arm – and that’s huge.”

The importance of support

For Aly, the real magic is in how thoughtful the support has been.

“It’s amazing that SLH and I were able to think of an idea together that’s fun and helps him physically. Watching him light up every time it starts is priceless.”

She hopes that the little green tractor continues to bring movement, motivation and joy into Noah’s days.

“I’m just so thankful. This gift is more than a toy. It’s giving my son a reason to try new things and to smile!”