More heartache
Steve and Leanne are told that Oliver may have brain damage
he body blows keep on coming for Steve and Leanne. Having already been told that their three-year-old son Oliver may have the life-limiting condition mitochondrial disease, this week a doctor informs them that the lad’s recent seizures have most likely left him with brain damage.
Medics make the diagnosis after reducing Oliver’s sedation. Leanne insists her son has his favourite toy for when he comes round – a red car – and sends Nick home to fetch it. But as Oliver’s medication wears
Toff, it becomes clear that things aren’t quite right.
His loved ones are left reeling as they’re given an explanation for his behaviour… or rather everyone but Leanne is. The feisty Battersby refuses to accept the bad news. Much to Steve and Nick’s worry, she’s adamant that her son will make a full recovery, and when she squeezes Oliver’s hand and he says, ‘Mummy,’ she’s overjoyed; believing it’s a ‘sign’.
‘As a mother, you think you know your child the best, and Leanne won’t accept anything until she absolutely has to,’ says Jane Danson, who plays her.
‘So she clings on to moments – “He’s said this, he’s done that, he’s hungry, so he must be better!” She’s just hoping her child will be that miracle for this awful disease where there is no cure.’
With Oliver’s test results not due for several weeks, the tot is later given the green light to go home. Leanne’s thrilled, and remains convinced that he’s on the mend.
Steve and Nick take a different view, however, and mask their concern as they’re faced with her positivity. Is Leanne headed for a heartbreaking wake-up call?
LEANNE WON’T ACCEPT ANYTHING UNTIL SHE ABSOLUTELY
HAS TO