Invergordon couple 'positive' despite delays to baby's treatment
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An Invergordon couple have told of their heartache after their little boy's medical treatment was delayed further.
Eight-month old Thomas Sim was due to receive a life-changing device, known as boots and bar, which is designed to help keep the foot in position.
However, the tot was airlifted to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh with a second bout of bronchiolitis, a respiratory infection.
Although he has recovered, doctors have now said he may need a second operation, known as a tenotomy, on his foot.
Mum Kimberley Giles (27) admitted she and her partner John have been left frustrated by further delays to their son's treatment.
"We can't quite believe that it all happened again," she said.
"We are hoping that this will finally be the week he goes into boots and bar but there is a real possibility that it won't happen.
"It's been very frustrating.
"When he came out of ICU and onto the ward they had a look and there wasn't enough flexibility in his foot.
"It was a huge surprise when we were told that he might need a second operation.
"We just feel like we are constantly having setbacks and it is so frustrating."
Despite everything, the couple are determined to remain positive for Thomas's sake.
"We keep in mind that it will lessen the chances of something more serious happening when he is older," Miss Giles added.
"Thomas doesn't know any different and you have to keep the bigger picture in mind. It's better that it's happening now."
As a way of saying thank you to the staff who have treated Thomas, the family are encouraging friends and relatives to donate books for children in the RHSC to enjoy.
"One of the things we were encouraged to do was read to Thomas," Miss Giles said.
"The first time we did it I just burst into tears because at that point, that was our only normality.
"Volunteers brought a book trolley round the ward and one of the things we noticed was that there weren't really any books for Thomas's age. The books that were there were quite worn and dated.
"I sell Usborne books and I decided to see if I could get people to buy one for the hospital as an extra Christmas present.
"We have already sold £120 worth which is fantastic.
"It's a small way of giving back to the hospital. Hopefully we can make a little bit of difference."
To find out more about how to donate a book visit https://bit.ly/2UeWfrW.
