Little Archie Makes a Big Splash

Baby Archie has faced so many challenges within his first year of life. He and his family have remained positive and thankful throughout his hospital journey, thanks to a range of charity-funded projects, and Archie’s love of swimming.

The family have reflected on their experiences and have even generously fundraised for the charity through a Darts Night, raising an incredible £2,648. Hear Archie’s story in the words of his mum, Anna.

Archie’s Hospital Journey

“Archie has a multitude of health conditions and has done so from birth. He was initially cared for in the Royal Alexandra Hospital NICU where we were given support by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity through their ‘Express Yourself’ kits, which included breast pumps and water bottles. We also received some wee cards to mark Archie’s milestones, such as “First Cuddle” with his big brother which was really special. 

“He currently is supported by Ophthalmology, Endocrinology, Neurology, Urology and Paediatric Surgery as an outpatient. When we go to Archie’s regular appointments, we make use of the shop - Archie loves to get a wee balloon as a treat!

“He also gets support from the Play Team during some of these appointments; he loves the singing and dancing, which makes the difficult parts of appointments way more enjoyable for both him and I.”

How Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity Helped

“Archie was an inpatient of Ward 2C and Ward 3C over Christmas time and he was treated like a wee prince! Both wards were amazing and so attentive to both his needs and ours, it was invaluable having the pull-out bed to be with him as he was only four months old at the time and I couldn’t imagine us being apart.

“The Play Team were outstanding, even though Archie was little they ensured he had age-appropriate toys and distractions throughout the whole process."

“We were also gifted a wee cuddly toy from the Hub shop which someone bought to be passed on to a child in hospital which was so kind.

“Archie had a magical visit from Santa which we couldn’t have done without Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, and this made the lead up to his first Christmas feel so special even given the circumstances.”

The Importance of Sport

“Archie has been active since he was days old, even when not feeling 100%, he’s always been on the move. His favourite is swimming; he has been in the pool since he was 10 days old and independently swimming on his back at 4 months! Now at 9 months he will swim on his front for short distances, jump in from seated on the side and loves to splash! 

“Archie is quite significantly visually impaired, however in the water he is able to do what every other child his age can do and more. It brings him so much joy and excitement, it truly is his favourite place!”

“Sport in Scotland is so important, we have so many channels for young people to participate in their sports independently. We have such a wealth of talented athletes, in particular some amazing and inspiring para-athletes.

“The Commonwealth Games coming to Glasgow will hopefully allow Archie and his brother to see the wealth of talent we have in Scotland and be inspired to continue participating in sport throughout their life.”