Jasper

Seven-year-old Jasper has a rare genetic disorder called APDS. Jasper, and his parents, travelled from Swansea to Ward 3 in January 2025, for a life changing bone marrow transplant.

They spent the first few weeks on Ward 3 at The Great North Children’s Hospital living in a protective ‘bubble’. Jasper had a round of chemotherapy followed by the transplant; his dad Matt was his donor. Once Jasper’s was doing better, they were allowed to leave the ward and moved into a hotel nearby, visiting the ward regularly for treatment and checks. It didn’t all go smoothly, and Jasper was readmitted to hospital a couple of times.  Jasper’s potassium levels have been worryingly low and as part of his treatment he was encouraged to eat bananas which are high in potassium. Once he started to feel better, the Chicken Banana video happened! It shows just how well Japer is bouncing back, his ongoing resilience and the wonderful staff on the ward, who have become like family during his stay.

Mum Sophie said “We’ve had our share of tough days, long nights, and the unknowns — but Jasper has met every single moment with bravery, strength, dancing and his smile. We tried to make this experience as positive as possible for him, finding light in even the smallest and hardest moments. There have been many tears, and not every part of this has been positive, (it would be to easy otherwise!) but we’ve always looked for the sunshine. And sometimes, that’s what carries you through."

Sophie has recorded Jasper’s Journey via a Facebook page, raising awareness of APDS and other rare immunodeficiencies.

Sophie is now a member of the Bubble Foundation Board.