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Harrison SmithWelsh toddler with chronic lung disease
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- Harrison Smith: A Premature Miracle
- A Sandwich Bag's Role in Keeping Harrison Warm
- Nine Weeks in the Hospital
- A Christmas in the Hospital
- A New Hope
- Chronic Lung Disease
- Linn's Charity Run
- Chronic Lung Disease: An Overview
Harrison Smith: A Premature Miracle
Harrison Smith was born on October 24, 2018, a premature baby weighing a mere 1.3 kg. His arrival, three months early, came with complications as he suffered from respiratory issues and a brain bleed.
A Sandwich Bag's Role in Keeping Harrison Warm
Despite his fragile state, Harrison's mother, Lynn Smith, kept her spirits high. In a creative move, she used a sandwich bag as an incubator to maintain his body temperature before he was transferred to the intensive care unit.
Nine Weeks in the Hospital
Harrison spent the first nine weeks of his life at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley, Renfrewshire. During this time, he required tubing for feeding and oxygen support due to his underdeveloped lungs.
A Christmas in the Hospital
Harrison's first Christmas was spent in the hospital, where he contracted a virus that worsened his condition. He was placed on a ventilator, making it difficult for his parents to comfort him.
A New Hope
Despite the setbacks, Harrison made gradual progress. His weight increased, and he became eligible to go home in January 2019, four days before his original due date.
Chronic Lung Disease
Harrison was diagnosed with chronic lung disease, a condition that affects premature babies. He continues to require oxygen support at night, but his doctors are optimistic that his lungs will strengthen over time.
Linn's Charity Run
To give back to the dedicated team that cared for Harrison, Lynn decided to participate in the Great Women's Run 10k charity event on June 4th. The funds raised will be donated to the special care baby unit at the Royal Alexandra Hospital.
Chronic Lung Disease: An Overview
Chronic lung disease is a broad term for long-term respiratory issues faced by premature babies. It occurs when the lungs are not fully developed, leading to inflammation and scarring of tissue. Common symptoms include rapid breathing, wheezing, flaring nostrils, and a need for mechanical ventilation or oxygen support beyond 36 weeks of gestational age. Treatment options may include mechanical ventilation, oxygen therapy, medication, and incubators. Most infants outgrow their need for oxygen by the end of their first year.
