Mum Of Dyfed Child Who Suffered Birth Brain Injury And Medical Negligence Lawyers Support Major Awareness Campaign

A boy diagnosed with cerebral palsy is living his life to the full despite the daily challenges he faces as a result of his disability. 

Finnlay Walters was starved of oxygen during his birth at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, Wales. Finnlay suffered a brain injury and it took doctors several minutes to resuscitate him. 

He spent several days on a ventilator and was subsequently diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Finnlay, of Pembroke Dock, Dyfed, is severely disabled. While he can roll and stand assisted he is reliant on others for all aspects of his care. 

Medical negligence lawyers helping Pembrokeshire family

Following his diagnosis Finnlay’s parents Emilee and Gareth, both aged 29,  instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his care under Hywel Dda University Health Board and help him access the specialist lifetime therapies and support he is expected to require. 

Finnlay, now aged seven, and his family are now joining their legal team to share his story as part of World Cerebral Palsy Day. 

Finnlay benefitting from disability boxing sessions

They are particularly keen to highlight the benefits of physical activity. Finnlay takes part in inclusion boxing which he discovered after attended a disability sport Wales event. He attends Pembroke and Pembroke Dock ABC club which is also part of Great Britain Disability Boxing.

Through regular sessions Finnlay has made great progress in living with his condition. He has developed his core strength, hand-eye coordination, social skills and confidence whilst finding a strong friendship group of children with similar disabilities as well as establishing fantastic relationships with his trainers.

Expert Opinion

“Through our work we sadly see first-hand the life-long consequences families can be left to face following a birth injury.

“While he faces many challenges Finnlay shows great courage and determination not to be defined by his condition. He has benefitted greatly from attending regular inclusion boxing sessions and through his involvement with other wheelchair sports such as basketball.

“World Cerebral Palsy Day is a great way of raising awareness of the condition, how disability need not be a barrier and how people can flourish with help and support.” Rosalie Reading - Senior Associate Solicitor

Cerebral palsy: Finnlay's story

Following his birth in November 2014, Finnlay, who also has a curvature of the spine, spent several weeks in hospital before he was allowed home. 

Finnlay, now attends Monkton Primary school. He has received speech and language therapy and has input from occupational therapy.

Emilee said: “As soon as Finnlay was delivered I knew something wasn’t right. Seeing him in the first few days on a ventilator was particularly hard. 

“When we got the diagnosis of cerebral palsy for Finnlay, it was a real mix of emotions. Relief that it was recognised as something and not our imagination but also fear and sadness of what it might mean for his future.

“While there have been difficult times over the last few years Finnlay is such a determined little boy. Despite everything he faces he’s the most loving and adorable boy I could wish for. 

“Seeing the difference in him since he started inclusion boxing and partaking in sport has been incredible. He’s made amazing progress and we’re so proud of everything that he’s been able to achieve.

“While he continues to face challenges, we felt it was important to speak out on World Cerebral Palsy Day about the help that is out there and how children like Finnlay are still able to live life to the full.” 

Find out more about our expertise in supporting families affected by cerebral palsy and other birth injuries at our dedicated medical negligence section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.