17 June 2024 , 18:32
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Geordie Shore star Aaron Chalmers' ex Talia Oatway has shared an emotional update on their son after he had his ninth surgery.
The former couple welcomed their son Oakley in 2022 and introduced him to their social media followers the following year. Talia has since been sharing updates on his health after he was born with the rare genetic disorder called Apert Syndrome. According to Great Ormond Street Hospital, Apert Syndrome is a rare genetic syndrome "caused by a mutation on a specific gene" and affects the skull, face, hands and feet.
Talia has kept fans updated as Oakley suffered sepsis shock and was put into a coma. She has since revealed an insight into Oakley's latest surgery, admitting the drive to the hospital "felt like it took forever". Talia shared how they were given short notice for his operation and so had a "mad rush to get everything organised with the family".
Writing in her blog, Talia said: "Oakley was so unbothered when we got there, always so full of life, playing and laughing even in the hospital before his surgery, brought me a fleeting sense of peace. His innocence and joy are such a contrast to the heavy burden we carry as mums, especially on the brink of another operation. He just smiled and played with his toys and I was the one left to worry."
Oakley had another surgery last week (Instagram/ @talia.oatway)
Oakley was diagnosed with Apert Syndrome (Instagram/ @talia.oatway)She emotionally added: "When the surgery itself happened, let me tell you it was grueling. Oakley had punctures in the dura lining of his brain. The doctors assured me they tried to fix it and would be monitoring him closely, but their words couldn’t quiet the pit in my belly. Sitting in that theatre room, it was all I could do to keep myself from falling apart. Watching my little boy go through something so daunting, I was a bundle of nerves, my mind racing with ‘what-ifs.’"
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The 32-year-old shared how Oakley underwent emergency surgery last week after a hole was found in his skull, causing brain fluid to leak out. She posted a photo of her son from the hospital and wrote: "We still have the lumber drain in. Someone woke up happy today."
Talia gave another update on their hospital stay last week as she shared: "My champ. Lots of messages regarding the why we are here still. Oakley had the FOA on the skull on the 13th May. He has had a lot of complications. CSF leaks, CSF infection which lead to sepsis shock. 2 lumbar drains, a EVD drain (in the head) IV fluids and antibiotics, 4 surgeries in total (on this admission) he was in an induced coma for around 6 days to help his body while he was fighting the infection.
"We have been here nearly 5 weeks now. Unfortunately with Apert Syndrome the operations don't always go to plan. Oakley had to have this surgery to help his brain, development and to protect the eyes. Everyday he shows me what true strength is."