Charlier Grainger and his brother

Charlie was born extremely premature and developed spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, learning difficulties and epilepsy. Charlies lives a very fulfilling life and wants to share his story with you.

Diagnosis

Charlie is a twin. He was born 10 weeks early by emergency caesarean section, weighing 956g (just over 2 pounds). Charlie was in neonatal intensive care for a number of weeks and was discharged home when he was 7 weeks old.

Over the next few months, it became quite obvious that Charlie’s twin brother was progressing and achieving his milestones. However, Charlie struggled to hold his head up and his hands were clenched tight, he could not roll over and sit unsupported. Charlie’s parents were concerned and arranged for him to be seen by a Consultant Paediatrician at the local hospital.

Charlie underwent a MRI scan which showed that he was suffering from a condition called periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). This is a type of brain injury that is most common in babies born too soon (premature) or at low birthweight. Charlie was subsequently diagnosed as suffering from spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, learning difficulties and epilepsy.

Charlie’s condition now

Charlie is determined to live life to the full, but he also understands that his condition impacts significantly on what he can do. However, with help from friends, family and his medical team, he is starting to develop techniques to assist him with his mobility and speech including, rolling over, crawling and sitting up unsupported, eating, his speech and his schooling.

Charlier Grainger playing snooker

Charlie is a very happy and sociable boy who loves spending time with his brother, especially when they are reading bedtime stories and playing games in their bedroom. They also share a love for football. Charlie has recently purchased a Leckey Upsee (mobility jacket) which enables him to play football in the garden.

“Charlie will continue to face new challenges and difficulties every day of his life, but with support he will be able to achieve what he wants to“ Charlie’s mum

How we can help

You may be concerned about the care provided to you during your pregnancy or birth or perhaps the neonatal care for your baby didn’t go as planned.

Our team of specialist solicitors can help you investigate a brain injury claim for your child and potentially access funds in the future to support your family through the challenges ahead.

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