Birthday party for boy who defied critical illness

A TODDLER from St Albans who was critically ill earlier this year is having a fundraising party for his birthday. Dominic Blower, who turns two at the end of this month, almost died in March after contracting pneumonia. His mother Renata said it was a te

A TODDLER from St Albans who was critically ill earlier this year is having a fundraising party for his birthday.

Dominic Blower, who turns two at the end of this month, almost died in March after contracting pneumonia.

His mother Renata said it was a terrible time for the family. "Dominic's illness led to sepsis and a collapsed lung, and the doctor said he might not survive. His brother and sister even had to come and say goodbye to him at one point."

But thanks to the efforts of the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at Evelina Children's Hospital in London, Dominic defied all the odds and is now doing very well at his home in Lattimore Road.

Nearly 50 friends and family have been invited to Dominic's party in early October where guests will donate money to the children's hospital rather than give presents.

Renata said: "What better way to celebrate Dominic's second birthday than to raise money for the hospital that saved him? Most people who know my son's story are more than happy to make a donation, and we're aiming for £1,000."

Dominic will have a few little presents to open on the day, and his five-year-old brother Elliot and three-year-old sister Lilia, both pupils at St Peters nursery and primary school, are more than happy to share their toys with the birthday boy.

The Blower family also celebrated Dominic's first birthday with a fundraising party, collecting over £1,000 for Great Ormond Street Hospital. So far nearly £300 has been raised for Evelina Children's Hospital, and to help the family reach their target you can make an online donation at www.justgiving.com/dominicblower.