This is for my son, for Leo.

Leo was born into this world at 31 weeks old, far too early, which unfortunately led to him suffering from a brain hemorrhage. This can be common in premature babies and can cause further issues, one of which is our little Leo’s case, Hydrocephalus.

Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain, which can damage it. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can be fatal.

Leo spent a total of 40 days in NICU at Princess Alexandra Hospital and luckily whilst there the Doctors identified Leo had developed Hydrocephalus as a result of his brain bleed.

At just 3 weeks old Leo was transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital where he went through his first brain surgery, weighing just 4 pound and only 34 weeks gestation, to place a temporary shunt in his head.

Hydrocephalus can usually be treated using a thin tube (shunt) that's surgically implanted in the brain and drains away the excess fluid. This is called a VP shunt and is something that is needed for life.

Leo was monitored by GOSH where it was decided he would need a VP shunt to replace the temporary shunt that was already placed.  In August Leo went through his second brain surgery.

Unfortunately shunts can block or break, which can happen at any time with no prior warning. If this happens further surgery is needed to repair or replace the shunt as soon as possible as delay could cause damage to the brain. 

Leo unfortunately has already suffered a partial blockage of his shunt, so back to GOSH he went for his third surgery, all before 10 months old. We are so grateful to GOSH for looking after Leo since he was born, they have been so amazing.

Harrys HAT, is a charity that helps to raise awareness of Hydrocephalus. Before Leo’s diagnosis, we ourselves had never heard of hydrocephalus. However 1 out of 770 babies suffer from hydrocephalus which shows this is more common than you would think.

Harrys HAT have done an amazing job of raising awareness of this condition and the signs that parents should look out for, as well as supporting families living with Hydrocephalus. Their ‘Get A Head’ campaign has been great at raising awareness of the importance of measuring a babies head circumference in their first year of life. 

Please if you have any time have a look at their great website - https://harrys-hat.org.

So I will be completing 100km on the ski-erg for Leo and raising money for Harrys HAT. I will be completing this on Saturday 11th February 2023 at the great venue of Crossfit 424, Harlow who have kindly allowed me to use their premises, feel free to pop down and give me a watch or join in for some metres on the ski erg with me! 

I would like to thank you all in advance for anything you can spare, I know times are hard so we are all extremely grateful.

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

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