Noah’s Story - Little Heroes

Noah, an incredible eight-year-old, was born on April 28, 2016, at the Royal Maternity Hospital in Belfast. Even before his birth, at the 21-week scan, Noah’s parents learned their lives were about to change forever. He was diagnosed with Hydrocephalus and Dandy-Walker Malformation, conditions that presented many medical challenges.

Noah’s journey began with a fight for survival. At just 10 days old, he underwent his first surgery.

Over the years, he has endured numerous operations, he has had 4 brain surgeries including brain bleeds.

On one occasion, there were serious issues with his shunt which required a prolonged stay in intensive care with meticulous 24-hour monitoring.

Despite these challenges, Noah has continued to defy the odds.

When he was born, doctors doubted he would breathe on his own. Yet, against all expectations, he took his first breath, demonstrating his incredible will to fight from the very start.

Today, while Noah cannot walk independently, he can stand with support, crawl, and even climb onto the kitchen table, a testament to his unwavering determination and spirit.

Noah’s health remains complex. He lives with epilepsy, experiencing daily absence seizures.

Recently, his condition improved with the introduction of new medication which has significantly reduced the severity of his seizures.

Noah is also tube-fed to ensure he receives essential nutrition and medications, as taking them orally has proved challenging.

Life has not been without its emergencies. On one occasion, Noah’s feeding tube dislodged, and his medications had to be paused. This led to severe seizures and a harrowing three-day wait for surgery due to hospital emergencies, and the demand for surgeons.

Despite these setbacks, Noah continues to thrive, his strength inspiring everyone around him.

Caring for Noah is a 24/7 responsibility. His parents, Kris and his partner, along with Noah’s mum Jill and her partner, share the duties, providing unwavering support. Noah’s three brothers also play a vital role in his life.

Kris’s admiration for his son has driven him to extraordinary lengths. Motivated by Noah’s resilience, Kris began running marathons and ultramarathons to raise funds for Little Heroes as the charity is close to the family’s heart.

Over the years, Kris has raised nearly £27,000.

His latest challenge, the Norn Iron 100- a gruelling 106-mile run, was a testament to his dedication, and he plans to do it all again this year, raising more vital funds for Little Heroes.

Kris found renewed strength in taking part in these incredible fundraising events for Noah, whose resilience and courage inspired him to keep going.

The family’s community in Limavady has rallied behind them, with neighbours supporting fundraisers and even braving the early hours to offer tea during Kris’s runs. Noah’s story has touched countless hearts, inspiring acts of kindness and generosity.

Noah’s medical journey continues, with regular check-ups at Belfast’s Royal Hospital for Sick Children and Altnagelvin Hospital. The staff at the Paul Ward were described by Noah’s dad as being ‘absolutely fantastic’ as well as staff at PICU who were pivotal in Noah’s care and made a lasting impact on Noah’s parents.

Noah’s spirit shines brightly. Despite the challenges he faces daily, he powers through with a radiant smile.

He is, without question, a true little hero, inspiring not only his family but everyone fortunate enough to know his story.

Please do what you can to support Little Heroes like Noah, whether it’s to Give a Little or to Do a Little, we would love you to get involved in any way you can.

Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of children facing illness in Northern Ireland.

Meet our Little Heroes...

A brave warrior with incredible family support.
Noah’s Story

Noah, an incredible eight-year-old, was born on April 28, 2016, at the Royal Maternity Hospital in Belfast. Even before his birth, at the 21-week scan, Noah’s parents learned their lives were about to change forever

Read Noah’s Story →