A young family is facing a serious health crisis after their newborn son, Luca Sadler-Davey, experienced a sudden and severe medical emergency just two weeks after birth. Born on October 10, 2023, to parents Lucy Shaw and Wesley Sadler-Davey, Luca was initially healthy, but his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to urgent medical intervention.
After two weeks of what Lucy described as “amazing” early days with their son, the couple awoke to a distressing situation. Luca exhibited alarming symptoms, including a swollen abdomen, a rash, and a high fever reaching 40°C. The parents rushed him to their local hospital, where medical staff began treatment immediately, suspecting a possible case of sepsis—a common condition in infants.
As Luca’s condition worsened, medical teams transferred him to a specialized facility for more intensive care. It was here that doctors began to suspect a rare and serious autoimmune disorder known as Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). This condition causes the immune system to become overly aggressive, leading to severe inflammation and potential organ failure.
Luca was later moved to Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, where he has received extensive treatment over the past six weeks from dedicated healthcare professionals. He has undergone chemotherapy using etoposide, a medication designed to target rapidly dividing immune cells. Despite the severity of his illness, Lucy reported that their son has shown remarkable resilience and maintains a positive spirit.
The family faced moments of extreme fear, with Lucy admitting there were times they worried, “he wouldn’t make it.” Yet, Luca’s strength has shone through, as he continues to defy expectations. Recently, he received approval for a vital bone marrow transplant, scheduled for January 26, 2026. This procedure is made possible thanks to a generous 21-year-old donor who has stepped forward to help.
While this news brings hope, the journey ahead remains challenging. Luca will undergo additional chemotherapy to suppress his immune system before the transplant. His parents are preparing for an extended hospital stay, anticipating they will need to be by his side for at least a month after the procedure.
With both Lucy and Wesley unable to work during this critical time, they are seeking financial assistance to manage their household expenses and cover medical costs associated with Luca’s ongoing treatment. They have launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising £2,800, which they hope will alleviate some of the financial burden during this challenging period.
Lucy expressed gratitude for the support they have received but emphasized the importance of continued assistance as they navigate the complexities of their son’s treatment. As they prepare for the next phase of Luca’s care, the family remains focused on the hope of a healthier future for their son.
