A baby boy who “nearly didn’t survive” after being born prematurely is going to be an ambassador for several Anglesey events this year.
Baby Theo, from Rhyl, North Wales, was born at Wrexham Maelor Hospital at just 27 weeks. The little boy spent two months in care across multiple hospitals before he was allowed to go home. He caught sepsis shortly after his birth and was later found to have two inguinal hernias.
His mother Julia described Theo’s health after birth: “The colour of Theo was literally drained. You could just tell by looking at him something wasn’t right. The colour was gone, he was really pale. It was really scary, we thought we were going to lose him”.
“Even the doctors were doubting the outcome. It was extremely exhausting. You just feel hopeless and feel like there’s not much you can do even though you know they are in good hands”.
Little Theo battles two operations before going home
“He had two heart murmurs (one of which is still partially open), and had to be sent home on oxygen for 12 months as he has chronic lung disease”, Julia said.
“He now has a bone conduction hearing aid, as he has mild hearing loss in both ears”.
The “strong little boy” has come far since his early arrival when his mum feared he would not make it. Theo celebrated his second birthday in July and now only has to attend hospital to see paediatricians, about once every three to six months. He also has an inhaler to help his breathing, which was impacted by chronic lung disease.
Theo’s story was told as part of a campaign by discount retailer B&M to raise funds for the Alder Hey hospital charity’s surgical neonatal appeal. Little Theo was transferred to the hospital in Liverpool for his hernia operation. Now he will be an ambassador for the 2025 Anglesey Half Marathon, Tour de Môn and Anglesey Trail Half Marathon, through which his story will also be shared.
Julia said “He’s come so far in two years”.
“He’s such a strong little boy”, she continued. “He’s amazing, and is always smiling at everybody. Nothing fazes him at all. He’s doing really well now, and is starting to say a few words”.
Spokesperson for Right To Life UK, Catherine Robinson, said “It is wonderful that companies and events are promoting the stories of premature children like Theo and continuing to keep them in the spotlight. We’re so pleased that he’s back at home now after a difficult start, and seems to be going from strength to strength”.
