Saved from a life in a wheelchair

Posted by Vicky Brady on 20 October 2014

In May 2014 Chloe was with her friends at Scout camp when she fell 18 feet from a tree, shattering a bone in her back and leaving another pressed against her spine.

Following her fall, Chloe was brought to the RNOH from Southend University Hospital in an emergency ambulance. She was in considerable pain and discomfort and had reduced motor skills in her legs - it quickly became apparent that she had sustained a serious spinal injury which was potentially life-changing. 

Understandably, Chloe’s family were extremely concerned and feared the worst that she may be permanently paralysed and would never walk again. Chloe’s father Simon said “On arrival at the RNOH, Chloe had been immobilised for nearly 24 hours and, although she is strong character, started to feel despondent. But, the abilities, genuine compassion and clinical knowledge of the medical team looking after her soon shone to the fore, and we were instantly reassured that we were in the best clinical place.”

Following her assessment, Chloe’s family met with the expert team at the RNOH, who talked them through her treatment options. It was decided that it was best for Chloe to undergo surgery to stabilise her fracture with orthopaedic consultant and spinal surgeon, Robert Lee. Her surgery involved inserting metal screws and rods into her spine to hold her broken back together - one of her bones was removed to help reduce the pressure on her spinal cord which was causing problems in her leg.  

Thankfully Chloe’s operation was a resounding success and one week later she was at home with no loss of motor or sensory skillsand very little discomfort.

Chloe’s father Simon, added: “We are finding it difficult to find the words to thank Robert Lee and his colleagues at the RNOH. We will be forever thankful to them. One day she will walk down the church aisle or run in the school sports day and we’re so hopeful of this because of the expert team who cared for our daughter. We never dreamed that Chloe would make a full recovery - the RNOH truly has answered all our prayers.”

Chloe and her family are now set to become charity advocates for our Redevelopment Appeal which aims to raise £15 million to fund vital additional facilities and equipment for the RNOH.