A young boy in Shropshire, Gunner Lewis-Vale, has finally stepped outside his home after half a year, thanks to a life-changing stem cell transplant derived from umbilical cord blood donated back in 2008.
Diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder at just 17 months old in March 2021, Gunner faced a grim prognosis without a transplant, with doctors giving him only a year or two to live. After an initial transplant from a German donor proved unsuccessful, hope resurfaced when Gunner matched with stem cells donated to NHS Blood and Transplant over a decade ago and cryogenically preserved at -150°C.
In January, Gunner underwent the critical surgery, followed by a painstaking six-month isolation period to allow his immune system to bolster its defenses with enough white blood cells against infections. Now, the vibrant summer days have become a newfound joy for Gunner, who revels in outdoor escapades alongside his seven-year-old sister Daisy.
From playful outings to the park, skate park, and leisurely walks with their dog, Gunner’s jubilant spirit shines through once more. His mother, Holly Lewis-Vale, remarked on his resurgence, noting his clever wit and the unbreakable bond he shares with his older sister.
Living with mucopolysaccharidosis type I hurler syndrome, a rare genetic disorder hindering sugar breakdown in the body, Gunner began displaying symptoms such as a protruding belly button, signaling sugar accumulation in his liver and spleen, affecting both physical and cognitive growth.
Expressing immense gratitude towards the anonymous donor who selflessly contributed their baby’s umbilical cord, Mrs. Lewis-Vale remains hopeful that the donor’s white blood cells will aid Gunner in producing the necessary enzyme to metabolize sugar effectively.
With their hearts full of appreciation, Gunner’s family advocates for more individuals to register as potential stem cell donors. Guy Parkes, the head of stem cell donation and transplant at NHS Blood and Transplant, commended the generosity of donors, particularly acknowledging the courageous act of the mother who donated her baby’s umbilical cord over a decade ago, making Gunner’s newfound outdoor adventures possible. Warm wishes and blessings are extended to Gunner and his family for a bright and hopeful future ahead.
Priyam Gera