Angel Jake such a joy

AN inspiration and a joy — Jake, a fighter to the end

Mum’s tribute as transplant son, 3, loses fight for life
THE heartbroken mum of a little boy who lost his fight for life has paid tribute to her “inspirational little angel”.

When Michelle Hamer (28) learned her son needed a liver transplant, she donated part of her own, to which Jake said: “Thank you for my liver, mummy.”

Three-year-old Jake, from Chadderton, had been diagnosed with Alagille syndrome — a genetic condition which affects the major organs — days after being born prematurely in November, 2007.

As his condition began to deteriorate he was put on the transplant list. After seven months without a suitable match, his mum offered to donate after his grandmother, Elaine, was told she could not be a donor. He was given daily medication and treated at Leeds General Infirmary, which has a specialist liver unit.

Doctors said the transplant in June had been successful, but nine weeks later, on August 9, little Jake lost his fight for life at the Royal Oldham Hospital. The cause of his death is not yet known. An inquest has opened and adjourned.

Michelle said: “He was smaller than most children due to his organs not forming properly.

“When I was pushing him in his pram people used to ask about my ‘baby’.

“He knew he wasn’t well, but he didn’t complain. I explained to him that his liver wasn’t working and that he would be getting a new one from mummy’s tummy.

“He was absolutely fantastic and such an inspiration. Our world has been left empty but I have so many brilliant memories and I’m so proud he was my son.”

He was due to start at Broadway Nursery in September.

Michelle, who is expecting a child next year with partner Steven Hardwick, said she would be keeping her new baby’s sex a secret, but revealed that Jake was really excited about having a new sibling.

He said he had hoped it would be a girl so he wouldn’t have to share his cars.

Michelle added: “He was a right little character and he used to say hello to anyone.

“I’m so grateful to all the support I’ve had from my family and friends and so many hospital staff.”

She urged people who are not on the donor register, to consider signing up.

A service will take place at Oldham Crematorium Chapel, Hollinwood, on Monday followed by interment at Hollinwood Cemetery.

The family ask that any donations be made to the children’s Liver Disease Foundation.