‘Our son had a common childhood virus but ended up on life support’
Three-year-old Freddie fell ill with a common cold virus and what seemed like a normal childhood illness. However, things took a drastic turn when his temperature spiked, leading to a harrowing ordeal for his parents, Victoria and Stephen Julian. After several doctor visits where they were assured it was just a virus, Freddie’s condition worsened. He woke up one morning with cold arms and legs, unable to stay awake. Rushed to Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil, it became evident that Freddie was incredibly unwell. Consequently, he was urgently transferred to Bristol Children’s Hospital and put on life support.
Victoria shared, “They did an echo and they contacted Cardiff, and Cardiff said it was a life and death situation based on his echo of his heart. Every second counted. He couldn’t go to Cardiff because they didn’t have the heart surgery and ECMO there, he would have to go to Bristol.”
Freddie’s severe condition stemmed from common childhood viruses like the cold and slapped cheek syndrome, eventually evolving into pneumonia. Having multiple viruses simultaneously overwhelmed Freddie’s body, causing it to attack his heart. He was the first child to receive treatment using a new ECMO machine at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. This groundbreaking technology played a vital role in saving Freddie’s life.
- Freddie’s lungs and heart were allowed to rest and recover on the ECMO machine.
- Victoria expressed gratitude towards the medical team for their exceptional care and support during such a challenging time.
- The ECMO treatment carries risks but can be a lifesaving measure for critically ill patients.
Freddie’s condition deteriorated, with his kidneys and liver failing. The medical team made the decision to place him on ECMO support, a life-saving intervention that proved crucial in his recovery. Despite the frightening experience, Freddie’s parents remained hopeful for his recovery.
A Long Road to Recovery
After weeks of intense treatment, Freddie was transferred back to Cardiff’s Noah’s Ark Hospital. Initially unable to speak, walk, or eat solid foods, Freddie made significant progress. He can now sit up unaided, take assisted steps, and has started babbling again. His family is optimistic about his full recovery and eagerly anticipate his return home in time for Christmas.
Victoria expressed her appreciation not only to the hospitals involved in Freddie’s care but also to the Ronald McDonald houses in Cardiff and Bristol for providing them with accommodation during this challenging period.
Every weekend, Freddie’s older sister Millie visits, bringing moments of joy and normalcy to the family. Victoria and Stephen take turns by Freddie’s bedside, with Victoria spending most of her time ensuring her son’s comfort. The journey has been arduous, but the family is immensely grateful for the support and care that have brought Freddie back from the brink.
The article above sheds light on the extraordinary journey of Freddie Julian, a three-year-old boy who faced a life-threatening illness due to common childhood viruses. His resilience, coupled with advanced medical interventions, has been instrumental in his remarkable recovery.