Riley Donoghue is now celebrating his 1st birthday after initially being given a low chance of survival when he was born.
Baby Riley was born last April at 26 weeks. He was incredibly small and was the same weight as a bag of sugar. He had to be delivered by C-section after a scan revealed there was a blood flow issue with his mum’s placenta, putting his life in danger.
Riley went on to spend 4 months at Middlesbrough’s James Cook University Hospital. He also required an additional 5 months on oxygen at home, undergoing multiple surgeries as well.
His mother, Casey, said: “Riley had all the odds placed against him during pregnancy, getting told he won’t live, our world was crushed…
“[But] Riley is one on April 19, which is a massive achievement for him! He’s reached another milestone that wasn’t expected at birth.
“He only weighed 470g at birth, which is 1lb 1oz – he now weighs 16lb6 oz. He’s a cheeky little boy who is full of energy.”
Casey also praised the hospital staff for the amazing care they gave to Riley.
SPUC comment
A SPUC spokesperson said: “It is tremendous to see a baby of Riley’s size overcome significant odds and thrive. Given the opportunity, he triumphed, thanks to amazing neonatal care and support.
“The resilience shown by Riley and his parents is a credit to the whole family. Now they all get to enjoy his first birthday. SPUC wishes Riley a very happy birthday and all the best for the rest of 2022.”
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