Carson Lees, a two-year-old from Marfleet, Hull, endured a broken leg for an entire year due to Congenital Pseudarthrosis (CPT), a rare skeletal disorder that causes weakened bones and frequent fractures. The condition was diagnosed after his leg snapped while he was playing in his cot at 14 months old.
Diagnosis and Initial Misunderstanding
Shortly after birth, Carson developed an unstable "false joint," which made a fracture almost inevitable. Doctors initially believed it was a positional birth defect that could be corrected with movement and physiotherapy. However, in June 2025, his parents Carter and Courtney were awakened by his agonizing screams. His leg was visibly broken, and after multiple tests, CPT was confirmed.
Courtney recalled: "We rushed him to A&E and they didn't really know how to deal with it. The doctor said we'll put a cast on it. We got home and thought everything was fine, it would heal within six weeks. The consultant who had been seeing Carson phoned and said they'd heard Carson has been in A&E, and they think it's what they call an impending fracture. It basically confirms that it was CPT."
A Year in a Clamshell Cast
Surgery could not proceed until Carson turned two, so he spent a year in a clamshell cast that required replacement as he grew. The limb reconstruction procedure lasted over five hours, and even after surgery, there is no guarantee his leg will heal properly. His mother describes him as a cheerful boy who finds ways to get around, but he occasionally becomes frustrated that he cannot do what his nursery friends can.
Courtney said: "He had to wait for the surgery when he turned two. He had a broken leg for a year on the day of his surgery. But he is literally not bothered, he finds his little ways to get around, he bum shuffles and walks on his knees. He's really resilient. I think he gets bored and fed up when he sees what other kids do in nursery."
Uncertain Future and Potential Amputation
The condition may cause further fractures. If the bone does not heal, additional surgery could be attempted, but with increased risks. "It may break again, and we could try surgery again, but with that comes more risks. It could pose more risk to the leg. If we don't choose to get the surgery again we are possibly looking at amputation. Fingers crossed it heals," Courtney added.
Following surgery, Carson is in a wheelchair while his leg heals. He enjoys activities like bowling with his family and delighted in getting a "babycino" ("nino") from the Sheffield Children's Hospital café during his stay.
Fundraising for the Hospital
Carson's parents are grateful to Sheffield Children's Hospital and the British Limb Reconstruction Society. They are planning fundraising events throughout the summer. More information is available at their GoFundMe page.
