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Snodland couple’s fundraiser to say thanks for saving their son Dennis Shoer

By: Joshua Coupe

Published: 14:30, 21 August 2015

The parents of a boy born 13 weeks early and given just a 30% chance of surviving are thanking those who battled to saved his life.

Dennis Shoer came into the world in January, 2014, weighing just 1lb, 5oz.

Then came more bad news – medics also warned if he survived he faced a 50% chance of having brain damage.

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Mum Laura meets Dennis for the first time

Dennis’ mother, Laura of Church Fields, Snodland, was taken to hospital after not feeling the baby move for a number of days.

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Dennis was delivered by caesarean section at the Oliver Fisher Premature Baby Unit at Medway Hospital on January 28, just 27 weeks into the pregnancy.

He was resuscitated at birth before being moved to intensive care and as he began his battle for life he was known by family as ‘Dinky Den.’

Pictured with parents Laura and Dennis

Speaking with her husband, also called Dennis, Laura, 34, said: “The worst thing is seeing your child in pain and having to sit back and do nothing. There were so many times I wanted to just hold him.

“We were so close to losing him, it was a long and hard battle, but I’m so proud of our little boy who pulled through, he really is our little miracle.”

Amazingly, Dennis showed no signs of having any brain issues following his start in life.

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Video: Dennis Shoer's story of survival

Mrs Shoer had to give up her job as a hairdresser as she spent all her time by Dennis’ cot.

After a number of stays in hospitals around the south east the family returned home in April 2014. They now want to raise money for the four hospitals who saved their son’s life.

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Mrs Shoer who has now returned to work part-time, said: “We want to say a massive thank you and give something back to make sure others going through the same get the care we did.

“From the machinery used to monitor his organs, to basics like clothing and tea and coffee for the parents, everything was covered.”

18 month old Dennis Shoer was given just a 30% chance of surviving after being born prematurely

A fun day will be held at Aylesford Sports College, Teapot Lane, Aylesford, on Sunday August 30, between 11am-4pm.

All money raised will be split between the Oliver Fisher Premature Baby Unit at Medway Hospital, the Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, St George’s University Hospital in London and the Early Birth Association in Brighton.

Dennis is now doing well with regular check-ups at Maidstone Hospital.

Donations can be made towards the family's campaign at www.gofundme.com/wj29p4.

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