A baby who was born with severe abnormalities has made a miraculous recovery despite claims by doctors that he had "no chance" of survival.
Riley Clarke, who is 17 months old, was born with his heart on the wrong side of his body, disconnected valves and twisted bowels.
Abortion
His mother Jade (22) was told by doctors that her son would not survive, and that she should consider having an abortion.
She refused to terminate her pregnancy, and was even assigned a bereavement midwife following her son’s birth.
But Riley overcame his complications and was sent home after spending more than a year in hospital where medical professionals battled to save his life.
Jade said: “Doctors told me time and time again that Riley would have no chance, and I should consider an abortion.
Angel
“But he’s an angel sent from above. He’s my first child and I just felt I wanted to keep him.”
A tracheostomy is still used to keep Riley’s airways clear, and he's required to wear a ventilator at all times to help his breathing.
Jade has been told by doctors that Riley may never walk, but she said: “He’s such a happy chappy. He loves Tigger from Winnie the Pooh and is always bouncing about.
“He needs watching constantly as sometimes he tries to pull out his tubes. It’s challenging but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I look past the tracheostomy now; I don’t see it any more. If it wasn’t there, you would never know.”
Riley will now be cared for by Jade and his father Rikki (25) at their home in Barnsley.
Comment
Andrea Williams of Christian Concern said:
"For far too long abortions have been recommended for disabilities that medical professionals strive to correct and treat after birth.
"Doctors need to present care and treatment as a real option in cases where genetic screening highlights the risk of disability. This should be accompanied by adequate emotional support for parents in a positive life-affirming environment."
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