Young Jude's hospital World Cup surprise

A mum whose son has a rare life-limiting condition said she was moved to tears after hospital staff made sure he did not miss England's World Cup quarter-final.

Nine-year-old Jude, was receiving oxygen treatment at Walsall Manor Hospital when nurses arranged for a large television to be brought in so he could watch England's victory over Norway with his family.

"Seeing him watch the game, I felt he was equal to other children it moved me to the point I cried," his mum, Hayley, said.

"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."

Jude has lissencephaly, a condition that causes severe developmental delay, mobility difficulties and epilepsy. He was recently admitted to hospital with a suspected chest infection.

Hayley said doctors told her after his diagnosis at four months old he was unlikely to live beyond the age of two.

Nearly a decade later, she said the support her son receives from staff at Walsall Manor Hospital continues to make a huge difference.

"All the staff involved have been amazing," she said. "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."

Knowing how much Jude enjoys football, staff made sure the family could watch the match together on the ward.

While England midfielder Jude Bellingham was not known to Hayley when she named her son, she said she loved seeing him react whenever supporters chanted "Jude" during the match.

It is not yet known whether Jude will be home in time for England's semi-final, but if he is still in hospital, staff hope to make sure he does not miss out.

Laura Brittain, senior nurse at the hospital, said: "The nurses always try their best to include patients in celebratory events.

"[Staff] was aware Jude enjoyed watching the football and supported the family to create positive memories."

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