Theo Chatham, a five-year-old who spent almost his entire life in hospital, has officially started primary school—a milestone his parents thought may "never be possible."
Theo, from Denny, was born weighing just 3lbs and was diagnosed with a rare condition shortly after his birth. At just three weeks old, he contracted necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), a serious condition that mainly affects premature babies, where tissue in the bowel becomes inflamed.
The condition led to brain damage, cerebral visual impairment, and focal epilepsy. Over five years, Theo underwent more than 200 operations, including 48 life-saving procedures.
Discharge and training
In June this year, Theo was finally discharged from Glasgow's Royal Hospital for Children, a moment his parents, Sarah and Gary, had been waiting years for. With the help of hospital staff, the couple received months of training in the lead-up to his discharge, allowing them to attend to Theo's needs at home.
It was their time to "be a family again," with the hopes of Theo attending primary school being the "next steps."
First day of school
The five-year-old was officially accepted into a local school dedicated to children with additional support needs and had his first day on Friday, October 9.
"He was just buzzing," dad Gary told Glasgow Live. "You couldn't wipe the smile off his face. We might never have seen this day—we've waited five years for this moment. It's his time now, he deserves to thrive and develop."
For now, Theo is gradually entering school life. Mum Sarah said: "We already see such a difference in him. The staff are incredible, and as scary as it was, it's good to be able to trust them and feel like we can let Theo go... even if it's for a couple hours here and there."
Hospital's well wishes
The Royal Hospital for Children also sent Theo their well wishes. The team wrote: "Last week, we were delighted to see one of our young patients who was with us for many years, take the exciting first step on his school journey.
"Born weighing just 3lbs, Theo had an incredibly challenging start to life, undergoing three major operations in his first week of being born. After many setbacks and a long, complex medical journey, it was a wonderful moment for Theo and his parents to celebrate this very special milestone.
"We're so pleased to see Theo reaching this exciting new chapter and wish him all the very best as he begins his school adventure."
