Give baby ‘one chance of life’ pleads mother
THE mother of a baby with a rare genetic condition has pleaded with a judge to give the little boy his “one chance of life”.
Connie Yates urged a High Court judge to let their sick baby son undergo experimental treatment in America so he has a chance to “improve”.
Doctors think it is time to stop providing life support treatment to eight-month-old Charlie Gard, who suffers from a rare genetic condition and has brain damage.
Charlie’s parents, who are both in their early 30s, disagree.
A decision over whether to turn off Charlie’s life support machines is being considered by the judge in London.
Addressing Mr Justice Francis directly, Ms Yates said: “Charlie has one shot, one chance of life.
“Without this treatment, Charlie’s only alternative is death. Charlie deserves his chance to improve and get a better quality of life.”
Postman Chris Gard and Ms Yates, of Bedfont, west London, want to be allowed to take Charlie to a hospital in America for a treatment trial.
The judge has been told that Charlie has a form of mitochondrial disease, which causes progressive muscle weakness. A lawyer representing Charlie’s parents said yesterday that Charlie would not suffer significant harm if he underwent treatment in America. His parents have raised £1.2million to pay for the treatment.
Earlier specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London said Charlie is largely unable to move and has significant irreversible brain damage.
Debra Powell QC, representing the hospital, said a number of “world-renowned” experts agreed. She said Charlie’s parents had given their son “complete and unwavering” love and support.
But she said Charlie should not get long-term life support treatment because his “quality of life” was “so poor”.
The judge will announce decision on Tuesday. his