1 week Ago
“His parents faced the unimaginable, making arrangements to bring their baby home to Ireland for a funeral” Baby Charlie A fundraising appeal for an Irish baby given no hope for survival at birth has almost reached its goal. A total of €68,465 has been raised for baby Charlie who recently celebrated his first birthday in Sydney Children's Hospital. On the ‘Brighter future for Baby Charlie’ iDonate page, it states that the fundraiser was set up on behalf “of the bravest and most courageous little warrior”.
“Charlie's journey has been nothing short of miraculous,” the page reads. “At six days old, he was given no chance of survival, but he has defied all odds. Now, he needs your help to give him the best possible future.
” According to the fundraiser, Charlie was born on March 30, 2024, “a happy and healthy baby boy”. His parents, Stephen and Sarah, were overjoyed to welcome him into their lives. But hours later, their world was turned upside down.
Charlie developed an infection from Group B Strep, which led to meningitis, sepsis, and seizures. They were told that Charlie “hadn't any hope of making it”. “His parents faced the unimaginable, making arrangements to bring their baby home to Ireland for a funeral,” the fundraiser adds.
On April 6, surrounded by family, Charlie was baptised in the hospital. “As we gathered to say goodbye, Charlie had other plans, he spat out his ventilator, and continued fighting. Within one week, he was off all breathing support.
” He then spent the next four weeks in NICU, battling against all odds. Although Charlie survived meningitis and sepsis, the damage left behind is devastating. He has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy which requires several-heavy duty anti-seizure medication twice daily and hydrocephalus, requiring repeat brain surgeries as he grows.
Although Charlie has spent much of his first year in and out of hospitals, undergoing multiple medical procedures, “he continues to fight with incredible resilience and a spirit that inspires everyone around him”. The fundraiser adds that Charlie's parents are doing everything possible to give him the best chance at living independently in the future. Early intervention is crucial, and Charlie attends daily therapies, including intensive physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Hydrotherapy, Acupuncture and Osteopathy.
There will also be regular medical and specialist appointments In the near future, Charlie's parents hope to explore Stem Cell Therapy, an innovative treatment that has shown promising results for children with cerebral palsy — helping with mobility, muscle control, and cognitive function. However, Charlie's needs are costly, which has huge financial implications. “We are fundraising to help cover the cost of treatments, equipment and medical expenses to give Charlie the best possible chance to progress.
“Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. “Charlie has already beaten the odds once, with your support, we can help him continue to defy expectations and build the brightest future possible.” The fundraiser adds: “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in Charlie, sharing his story, and being part of his journey.
Some of those who donated added messages of support including one that reads: “Wishing you and beautiful baby Charlie a lovely bright future ahead.” Another adds: “Dear Sarah and Stephen, I didn't know about your extremely difficult year with beautiful Charlie until just now. Something small on behalf of the family.
” One other person said they were: “sending all our love and support to incredible Charlie and his amazing parents.” “What a little warrior Charlie already is, sending all the hope for little Charlie's future and big strength to you both Sarah & Stephen,” one person declared..
