Spotting his England top and bed adorned with flags, Staff Nurse Alex Malli arranged for a large television to be available on the ward – ensuring the family could still enjoy England’s quarter-final clash with Norway together on Saturday night.
The Walsall nine-year-old has a rare, life-limiting condition called lissencephaly which causes severe developmental delay and mobility difficulties. He also has epilepsy.
Following his diagnosis at four months old, Mum Hayley Wigley understood her son wouldn’t live beyond his second birthday.
Almost a decade later, Jude has surpassed expectations yet still needs round the clock care. This often means regular hospital visits plus support from Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Community Nursing Team.
Hayley, who is Jude’s full-time carer, said: “All the staff involved have been amazing. From the Cleaners to the Healthcare Assistants, Nurses, and Doctors.
“He has a complex condition, but they treat him with such compassion, while having empathy and understanding.”
While the England football hero Jude Bellingham wasn’t well known to Hayley when naming her son, she admits her delight when seeing Jude react to hearing his name chanted by the fans on TV.
“Seeing him watch the game, I felt he was equal to other children – it moved me to the point I cried. People can often be scared to interact with someone who is so poorly a lot of the time, but Alex didn’t hesitate to make a fuss.
“Without the team, I’m sure Jude wouldn’t be here today. A massive thank you for all the incredible care they’ve given.”
Jude was admitted to hospital on Thursday 8 July when Hayley noticed him “not being his usual self”.
Since last week he has received treatment for a suspected chest infection, which includes being put on oxygen.
Despite this, ward staff rallied round to ensure he didn’t miss out on the World Cup celebrations.
“It’s been difficult over the years as he doesn’t get to play games in the same way an able-bodied child can,” said Hayley, “but Nurse Alex was so empathetic and wanted to make sure he had fun.
“He’s non-verbal but his face lights up while watching football. It’s the colours and the cheering from his dad and sisters – it has him animated and it’s lovely to see.”
Laura Brittain, Senior Sister, said: “The Nurses always try their best to include patients in celebratory events.
“Alex was aware Jude enjoyed watching the football and supported the family to create positive memories.
“The Red Lion pub (Park Street) kindly donated the TV through the Trust’s Well Wishers charity, and it shows these donations really make a difference to our patients.”
While it’s uncertain if Jude will be home in time for England’s semi-final match with Argentina this Wednesday, staff on duty will be geared up to ensure he still has a ball if he’s on the ward!
