GLADIATORS star Zack George and wife Samantha have revealed how a delicate procedure in hospital likely contributed to their newborn son’s death.
Leo tragically died in April, aged just 13 days, after being born prematurely at 23 weeks.
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TV star Zack, 35, who is better known as Steel, told the Mirror how Leo was born “really strong”, before things took a downward turn two days into his life.
Initially, Leo was placed on a ventilator, but after responding well he was taken off it and provided with CPAP, a non-invasive way of keeping airways open.
However, when he was retubed after six hours, it is believed accidental damage was done to his windpipe.
As well as suffering from brain bleeds, a hole in the heart and collapsing lungs, air pockets began to form around his lungs.
Zack said: “Around the tenth day they started getting a bit bigger. They came to the conclusion that when they tubed him, either the first or the second time, they created a hole in his windpipe. It’s no one’s fault, a baby that young is really fragile, it’s just a risk.
“That was really hard, because if it hadn’t happened, he would probably still be here. A 23-week-old baby has so much to do. Overnight, he got quite bad, that’s when we went in and he passed away.”
The couple decided against giving Leo CPR having already witnessed him go through so much.
Zack announced Leo’s tragic death with a heartbreaking picture of he and Samantha holding him.
He wrote on Instagram: “Your mummy brought you into this world and your daddy held you as you left.
“Leo…… you showed us what the true definition of strength is and we are so proud of you.
Gladiator star Steel’s emotional final message to son Leo just hours after he died at 13 days old
“You brought so much positivity to the world with the short time you were with us and we felt that positivity in abundance, we thank you all so much for that.”
He continued: “Although you were only with us for a short time, you brought us a lifetime of love. Thank you for letting us know that YOU had had enough of this fight. We will forever be grateful that we didn’t have to make that decision for you.”
“Leo our lion, we love you more than you will ever know.
“Rest easy our little boy.”
Zack’s Gladiators co-stars sent their heartfelt tributes.
Strictly star Montell Douglas, known as Fire, shared a message which read: “RIP baby Leo. Thoughts and prayers are with you both.”
Ella-Mae Rayner, known as Comet, shared: “Cannot even begin to imagine what you must be going through. Sending you both all the love and strength in the world. We are all here for you.”
Jodie Ounsley, Fury, wrote: “My heart genuinely breaks for you both, sending big hugs.”
Alex Gray, known as Apollo, shared hearts and Jade Packer (Electro) said: “Leo, sending so much love & light.”
The couple, who also have a daughter called Ivy, laid Leo to rest in May.
Where to get support for bereavement
There is lots of help and available if you are experiencing grief after the death of a loved one.
NHS therapy and counselling services – NHS talking therapies services are for people in England aged 18 or over. You can speak to your GP about talking therapies or get in touch with the talking therapies service directly without going to your GP.
At a loss – Find bereavement services and counselling across the UK
Child Bereavement UK – Offers support if you are bereaved after losing a child. Or if you’re a child or young person who is grieving after losing someone.
The Good Grief Trust – a charity run by bereaved people, helping all those experiencing grief in the UK.
Samaritans – if you’re struggling you can call Samaritans any time on 116 123 to talk about anything.
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