You may have heard on the news about the sad court case involving 'Baby RB' that went to the High Court recently. The case involves a legal dispute over a one year old boy's right to life.

Baby RB suffers from congenital myasthenic syndrome and has been in hospital since birth. His father believed that he might be able to be cared for at home if surgeons carried out a tracheostomy, which creates an opening in the neck to deliver air to the lungs. However, the hospital, supported by the mother, say the baby will lead a "miserable, sad and pitiful existence", and wish to turn his life support off.

However, the father changed his mind after hearing medical evidence which suggested it would be in the best interests of the child if medical support was withdrawn. Sadly, Baby RB's life support has now been withdrawn allowing him to pass away peacfully.

Whilst Sophie does not have the same condition as Baby RB, she is however fully ventilated via a tracheostomy. While Sophie's condition doesn't appear to be as severe as Baby RB's we felt it important to make it clear that children with tracheostomy's requiring ventilation need not lead a 'miserable, sad and pitiful existence' as was impiled by some healthcare professionals during the court case. Sophie lives at home and has a reasonable quality of life, experiencing life, love and happiness despite all her disabilities.

We appear on Channel 4 news which can be viewed here:
http://www.channel4.com/news/articles/uk/baby+rb+father+drops+life+support+challenge/3418097

We appear in the Daily Telegraph which can be viewed here:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/children_shealth/6546530/I-wouldnt-wish-Baby-RBs-life-on-anyone.html