Transformed Life after Stem Cell Transplant
One young boy, at the age of five, has now been able to step out of his house after six months, following a successful stem cell transplant derived from umbilical cord blood donated in 2008.
Gunner Lewis-Vale, a resident of Shropshire, was diagnosed with a rare hereditary condition back in March 2021, when he was just 17 months old.
Upon learning that without a transplant, their child may have just a year or two to live, Gunner’s parents Holly and Jamie Lewis-Vale, aged 34, were left in despair.
After an initial unsuccessful transplant from a donor in Germany, a matching stem cell sample from 2008, stored with liquid nitrogen vapour at -150C and donated to NHS Blood and Transplant, proved to be Gunner’s saving grace.
Post his surgery in January, Gunner had to observe a six-month isolation period to allow his immune system to strengthen by producing adequate white blood cells to combat infections.
Now, Gunner’s life has taken a significant turn for the better as he relishes the summer with his seven-year-old sister Daisy.
The Inspiring Journey
Mrs. Lewis-Vale expressed, “Up to this point, we have explored the park, skate park, walked the dog, accompanied his elder sister for school runs, and even fed the ducks.”
She added, “Gunner’s spirited nature is resurfacing. He is a bright young boy who shares an exceptional bond with his older sister.”
Gunner suffers from mucopolysaccharidosis type I hurler syndrome, an unusual genetic condition hindering the breakdown of specific sugars in the body.
Accumulation of these sugars can result in developmental issues, both physically and mentally.
Advocating for Stem Cell Donations
The first noticeable symptom in Gunner was a protruding belly button, caused by sugars accumulating in his liver and spleen.
“We are extremely thankful to the generous mother who donated their baby’s umbilical cord,” Mrs. Lewis-Vale expressed gratitude.
“The new white blood cells received from the donor will, hopefully, generate the enzyme he lacked to break down sugars,” she continued.
Gunner’s family now encourages more individuals to register as stem cell donors to potentially help others in need.
Words of Appreciation
Guy Parkes, the head of stem cell donation and transplant at NHS Blood and Transplant, shared their delight at witnessing Gunner relishing outdoor activities post his stem cell transplant.
Parkes added, “Stem cell transplants are made possible solely due to the generosity of donors. We extend our gratitude to the mother who made the choice to donate their baby’s umbilical cord over a decade ago. We wish Gunner and his family all the best.”