Iron man Neil to show his mettle for Charlie

CHARLIE with his iron man uncle Neil Woods and (back from the left) parents Alyson Evans and Chris Hibbert, aunt Rachel Woods, cousins Connie (4) and Gabrielle (7), and grandfather Councillor Dave Hibbert

LITTLE Charlie Hibbert’s parents feared they were going to lose him when he was admitted to hospital with a rare blood disorder.

The toddler, who is two on August 20, was in an induced coma for several days and then had to undergo dialysis.

He is now back to his old self and his battle has inspired his uncle, Neil Woods, to complete an iron man challenge in aid of Kidney Research UK.

The family’s ordeal started in April when Charlie had been unwell for a couple of days.

His father, Chris (40), of Bramblewood, Chadderton, explained: “He was just a bit off. Very restless, whingey and clingy.

“We took him to casualty just expecting them to check him out but they were worried.”

Staff were unable to run tests because Charlie’s blood kept clotting and he was transferred to Pendlebury Children’s Hospital by ambulance.

Chris and his partner, Alyson Evans (37) were told that Charlie’s potassium levels were life-threateningly high and could cause heart or kidney failure.

The youngster underwent surgery to insert fluid lines and Chris explained: “It was very, worrying.

“The first night we were in a waiting room. Every time someone came down the corridor we did not know what they were going to say to us.

“We thought we were going to lose him that night. But after that first operation they told us he out of danger.”

Charlie — whose grandfather is Councillor Dave Hibbert — was diagnosed with the rare blood condition, PCH.

A biopsy identified serious kidney damage and he underwent months of dialysis.

Medication and diet now keep his potassium levels under control but he will probably need a kidney transplant in future.

Chris, a civil engineer, said: “If you look at him now you wouldn’t believe that he had a serious illness. He is full of energy, a typical little boy.

“Having a kidney transplant in two or three years is something we will deal with then. He will have two options: to go on the waiting list or to receive a kidney from a relative.

“If one of us is compatible that is the option we will take because he wouldn’t have to wait.”

Neil (42), of Broadway, Chadderton, hopes to raise around £1,300 when he completes in his first triathlon in London on Sunday.

He said: “The training is going very well — apart from the swimming. All the family are coming down, including Charlie, which will be very nice.”

To sponsor Neil, visit www.justgiving.com/neilwoods