Meet Jonathan – 20 months old and already a little fighter

Jonathan has been through more in his short life than many of us face in a lifetime. At just 13 months old, he suffered a stroke after his lungs collapsed due to sepsis caused by strep pneumonia. That was in October, and he remained in hospital until February this year.

He’s had a shunt placed in his head to manage a brain bleed and ongoing fluid buildup, and he’s often unwell, regularly needing emergency care, including spending most of March and part of April in the Emergency Department. He still gets very sleepy and vomits when lying down in a bed or pram, and he’s more comfortable and stable when sitting upright in a supportive seat.

Jonathan is now navigating challenges with his vision, balance, and eating, and has complex medical needs. He’s pictured here in one of the new soft sitters recently purchased thanks to funding from the New Horizon Community Trust. These cushioned seats are making a huge difference for children like Jonathan. Soft sitters provide essential postural support, allowing young patients to maintain a safe and comfortable position during therapy and everyday activities. For children with mobility challenges or developmental delays, these seats can improve outcomes, reduce pain, and create a more positive rehabilitation experience.

Support like this helps us ensure that kids like Jonathan receive not only the medical care they need, but also the comfort they deserve on their journey. Thank you to New Horizon Community Trust for purchasing these special seats for our patients.