Parents appeal for help as baby is treated in Great Ormond Street Hospital

The parents of a seven-week-old baby being treated at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London are appealing for help with their living costs to ensure they can both remain with him.

Spencer Quayle, of Newark, was born with bladder exstrophy, a congenital abnormality where the skin over the bottom part of the stomach does not form properly. He also has problems with his bottom, has a hernia and slightly bigger kidneys.

His mother, Hannah Quayle, 23, said her 20-week scan had revealed there was a problem.

From then on she had to go for regular checks at the Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, and she was induced on June 3, two days before his due date.

"I was able to cuddle him for five minutes before he was taken to the intensive care unit," she said.

Hannah and her husband, William, 25, were told Spencer may need a few operations but in the meantime were able to take him home after five days.

Last week they took him for a routine appointment at Great Ormond Street Hospital and were unexpectedly told he would be admitted.

"We came with nothing," said Hannah. "Just ourselves, a few clothes and enough milk for a day for Spencer."

Since then, the couple have been both staying with Spencer during the day but only one is allowed to remain there at night.

So far they have had a room belonging to the hospital, about ten minutes away, where they take turns to stay.

But, if another family need it more urgently, they may have to find somewhere else.

Hannah said they were managing so far but finding everything so much more expensive.

Spencer uses more nappies than other babies because of his condition and has to have cream applied every hour.

He is due to have surgery tomorrow but also has jaundice and needs treatment, so it could be delayed.

"We are coping with all sorts of emotions," said Hannah.

"Every day we see Spencer getting better makes us happy but it is painful having to see him have to have so many tests."

The couple are finding it very stressful, worrying about Spencer and how they will manage financially.

At the moment William is on unpaid leave from his job as a chef.

To help, a Gofundme page has been set up in the hope of raising £1,500, which would help cover their costs for the next five weeks while Spencer is in hospital.

"We woud like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has helped so far," said Hannah.

"The support has been amazing."

Anybody wanting to help can donate at www.gofundme.com/spencers-bladder-surgery

Donations, toys, nappies and wipes can also be taken to Wheatcroft Flooring, Sherwood Avenue, Newark, which is run by Spencer’s grandfather.