A baby boy who spent more than 500 days in hospital has finally been discharged and will spend his first Christmas at home. Bertie Melly, born at 24 weeks weighing just 1lb 10oz, was diagnosed with necrotising enterocolitis, a serious condition causing intestinal tissue inflammation and death.
After undergoing five operations and losing around 70% of his small intestine, Bertie was allowed home in November after 547 days in hospital. His parents, Phoebe and Callum Melly from Bromley, described him as a “remarkable little human being”. He now has a short gut and is tube-fed, with an IV line supplying essential nutrients.
Bertie spent his first six months in neonatal intensive care at St Thomas’ Hospital before being transferred to Evelina London Children’s Hospital. His parents stayed at the nearby Ronald McDonald House throughout his treatment. Mr Melly, 37, said Bertie is “the happiest child you will ever meet”, despite the scars from numerous cannulas and surgeries.
Mrs Melly, 34, attributed her son’s cheerful nature to the “love and affection” from hospital staff. Now at home, Bertie is making good progress—climbing stairs and standing more confidently. The family plans to spend Christmas with loved ones, and Mr Melly hopes Bertie can have his IV line removed within a year.
