A family have spoken of their shock after their nine-year-old son suddenly collapsed at school. All seemed like a normal morning last week when parents Cris and Melissa received a devastating phone call to say their son Alex Darracott had collapsed suddenly.
Alex was rushed to hospital in a 'really bad way' where he began treatment for a viral infection. But, tests would soon show that he had actually suffered a bleed on the brain and he was therefore rushed to Alder Hey Children's hospital.
Mum Melissa Penketh called dad Cris, who rushed to Alder Hey where Alex underwent a seven hour operation. Family friend David Keelan said doctors were "preparing them for the worst", Liverpool ECHO reports.
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David told the ECHO: "The surgeon said it was a serious operation and they didn't hold a lot of hope which was heartbreaking for them. He came out of surgery at around 9/10pm that night and they were told the next 24 hours were critical."
David added: "His speed of recovery has been immense. A walnut sized clot was taken out of his head. The surgeon kept saying he cheated death, he didn't expect him to be awake for the first few days.
"He was meant to be in for two weeks but he's being discharged today (June 22). They aren't sure what the long term damage will be but his sheer will to not give in and get home to his family."
A Gofundme page has been set up to help the family, some of whom were travelling to and from hospital every day.
David added: "He was about to go to after school club, he's a mad footballer. He's been player of the year and is a huge Everton supporter, it follows in the family because his grandad played for Everton.
"Alex has a recovery period ahead of him and their focus will be on the family and how they support each other."
Anyone wishing to donate can do so here. The fundraiser reads: "He has a loving family, parents Cris and Melissa, and siblings Kiera and Harley are all spending as much time as possible with Alex during his post-operation time.
"They have all been supported by the amazing staff at Alder Hey and Ronald McDonald House. The family unit is holding strong but needs your help and support in the long road ahead."
