Stem Cell Transplant Brings Christmas Joy to Young Boy

A five-year-old boy, who has a life-limiting metabolic disorder, is marking Christmas following a crucial stem cell transplant. Gunner, from Highley, Shropshire, received a diagnosis in 2021 of Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I Hurler Syndrome, a condition that prevents his body from processing sugar. Without a transplant, his prognosis was one to two years of life. However, he underwent a transplant in January, utilizing stem cells derived from an umbilical cord that had been donated to the NHS 15 years prior. Following a six-month period of isolation, Gunner is currently observing Christmas with his family. He also participated in turning on his village’s festive lights alongside his older sister, Daisy. His mother, Holly, stated: “We had a really difficult first half of the year, when Gunner had to isolate after the stem cell transplant. But we’re now really beginning to see the difference it has made and are enjoying celebrating Christmas all together.” She added: “We’re spending Christmas Day with my dad and sister and are excited to create memories together as a family.” Holly also expressed gratitude, saying: “We are so grateful to the mother who chose to donate her child’s umbilical cord all of those years ago – without them, Gunner wouldn’t have been able to have his stem cell transplant and things would look very different for us this Christmas.” Furthermore, Holly encouraged individuals to register as stem cell donors, provided they are eligible. She further commented: “It really does make a huge difference to the people who need a stem cell transplant – and their families, too.” Gunner has undergone multiple treatments, such as enzyme infusions, and a prior stem cell transplant that was unsuccessful. The objective of this second transplant is to prolong his life and enhance its quality. Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.