Published Date:
12 February 2009
By Claire Beal
A BRAVE seven-year-old who beat the odds to survive after being born with a life-threatening illness has been nominated for a Super Kids award.
Morgan Sysum, of Tasburgh Close, Lynn, pictured right, has a condition known as Prune Belly Syndrome, which causes a wrinkled abdomen in newborn babies.
Morgan has been nominated by his parents, Darren and Amy, who said: "He is our brave boy."
Morgan's illness is so little known that most people have never heard of it.
Amy said: "It is so rare that I have to explain to most doctors what it is."
His problems were caused by a blockage in his body before he was born which meant he was unable to pass urine.
His kidneys and other organs were damaged and he was given only a two per cent chance of survival.
Amy said she was advised to have a termination and Morgan was expected to die within hours of being born.
"But his strength started then and he beat the odds," she said.
SYNDROME
The syndrome has affected the muscles on the left-hand side of Morgan's tummy and one of his kidneys had to be removed when he was a year old.
His remaining kidney is seriously damaged and he will eventually need a transplant.
Morgan also needs help emptying his bladder and has to take four types of medication every day. He regularly goes to hospital for blood tests.
Amy said Morgan had shown immense strength and courage throughout his life.
"He never stops smiling and enjoys life to the full like any other boy.
"He really enjoys street dancing and loves going on his 'motorbike.'
"He never lets his life-threatening problems get him down. Nothing does."
Picture: ALAN MILLER 09AM01260 www.photostoday.co.uk
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Last Updated:
12 February 2009 9:38 AM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
King's Lynn