Desperate Mum’s New Year Plea as Her Toddler Fights for Life Awaiting an Organ Donor

Jade Bradford, 23, has made an emotional appeal for people to make organ donation their New Year’s resolution as her three-year-old son, Zachary, clings to life while waiting for a double organ transplant. Zachary, from Kirkintilloch, urgently needs a small bowel and liver transplant to survive.

Despite being told in September 2024 that Zachary had only weeks to live, the brave boy has defied the odds. Doctors in Birmingham, where his surgery will take place, have expanded the criteria for donors, now accepting larger organs, increasing the chances of finding a match. This groundbreaking decision means even a small adult could potentially save Zachary’s life, as reported by the Daily Record.

Jade, a mum of two, has called on the public to consider registering as organ donors as they make their New Year’s resolutions. Speaking to The Record, she said, “A lot of people will make plans for the New Year, but our only priority is keeping our son alive.”

“When people are deciding to join a gym, start a diet, or cut out alcohol, Zachary will be in the hospital fighting and waiting for that life-changing call. I want people to consider organ donation when they’re thinking about big changes they could make.”

Zachary’s journey has been harrowing. After Jade married her partner Rhys in October, Zachary’s health deteriorated rapidly. He suffered severe internal bleeding and had to be flown to Birmingham in a private jet for an emergency procedure.

Jade recounted the terrifying moments: “It’s been really scary. There have been times we’ve had to pull the emergency buzzer in the hospital when he’s become really ill. Every time he has a bleed or infection, we think it could be the last one.”

In November, Zachary contracted RSV, a common infection that nearly put him into a coma. The family has spent most of the past month in and out of hospitals, making fleeting trips home.

One bright moment came when Zachary and his little brother, Reuben, were visited by Santa at home, thanks to the John O’Byrne Foundation. The family also spent a respite break at Robin House Hospice during the festive season, creating cherished memories together.

“We’ve made lots of everlasting memories as a family,” Jade said. “We just hope and pray that in 2025, we’ll be able to make more.”

Jade’s heartfelt plea serves as a powerful reminder of how life-changing organ donation can be. To join the donor register, visit your country’s organ donation website.