Three-year-old Theo is thriving following a lengthy hospital stay
This is the moment the family of Theo McCarthy had been waiting for – the toddler playing outside at nursery.
The three-year-old from Shrewsbury was born with Spina Bifida and as a result underwent a series of life-saving operations at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
His mum Claire McCarthy, his full-time carer, explained: “Theo was just a few days old when he was admitted. He was very poorly after he was born and although he began to recover, we knew there was a risk he may develop other complications due to his Spina Bifida.
“When his head ballooned, we knew immediately he had hydrocephalus and he was quickly moved to intensive care.”
Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain which affects most babies born with Spina Bifida. He underwent a procedure to have a shunt fitted to drain the fluid, carried out by Mr Desiderio Rodrigues, Consultant and Clinical Service Lead for Neurosurgery.
The operation was successful, however, Theo was further diagnosed with Bilateral Vocal Cord Palsy, where the vocal cords cannot move correctly, leading to serious breathing difficulties.
At just three months old, he underwent another procedure to have a tracheostomy fitted to help him breathe.
After more than 10 months as an inpatient at BCH, he was finally discharged home where he continued his recovery.
Claire shared: “Theo is a happy little boy who loves going to nursery, making lots of friends and playing with his big sister Elsie, who is always looking out for him.
“We know he may never walk but he is living the best life he can. He still has a tracheostomy for now and can’t talk but is learning to communicate in his own way and we’re so proud of him.”
Theo still attends the hospital for check-ups and enjoys his appointments with Katie Herbert, Clinical Nurse Specialist for Neurosurgery.
Katie shared: “Theo is an absolute joy and it has been a pleasure and a privilege to be part of his journey. The dedication, love and patience that Claire has for Theo is a testament to how he is thriving now.”
Mr Rodrigues shared: “My team and I have been privileged to be part of Theo's journey. Theo and Claire have taught us that challenges are sometimes gifts that force us to search for a new centre of gravity.
“They both have not only fought difficulties but found their own unique ways to overcome them. I am proud of them both.”
Claire added: “I know that if we ever need anything, the team are just on the end of the phone. We are so thankful to everyone and all the support we have received throughout our journey.”
