Born the second of four children, Rory has always suffered with severe headaches and back pain. In 2019 he was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation, a condition that means Rory’s brain tissue was extending into his spine. Rory’s Dad works at RAF Odiham and like all military personnel, he sometimes has to spend long periods working away from home which can make life even more challenging for Rory and his family. Rory’s Dad once had to return home early from an overseas deployment after Rory developed sepsis and ended up in hospital.
In 2020, Rory’s headaches got worse and the family were told that surgery was the only hope of stopping the pain. Rory had decompression surgery three weeks ago at Southampton Children’s Hospital where surgeons removed part of Rory’s brain and some bone to open up a passage so Cerebral Spinal Fluid can move freely. The family were told that it is one of the most painful surgeries they do, but Rory has taken it all in his stride and was mobile again just 48 hours after the operation on basic pain relief. He is now recovering well at home.
Mum, Jemma Mullan explains: “We are incredibly proud of Rory and everything that he has been through. He is such a brave boy who always puts a smile on our faces and the faces of his brother and sisters. Thankfully he is recovering well and he is absolutely delighted to win this award from Little Troopers.”
Rory was sent a special medal, certificate and a £50 voucher from Little Troopers as part of his prize.Thank you to Amazon for sponsoring this Little Trooper of the Month.
