Arthur Chatwin, an 18-month-old toddler from Cheddar, Somerset, has shown incredible resilience in the face of severe health challenges. Just five days after his birth, Arthur tragically died twice but was miraculously revived thanks to swift and skilled medical intervention.
Since then, Arthur’s journey has been fraught with numerous hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing medication—taking medicine seven times a day and requiring frequent intensive care. His family has even had to perform resuscitation at home to save him.
Born two weeks early in December 2024, Arthur was diagnosed shortly after birth with Ornithine Transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency, a rare and severe metabolic liver disorder. This condition has dramatically impacted his young life, necessitating a series of surgeries and constant medical attention. Now, the best hope for Arthur is a life-saving liver transplant.
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Arthur’s parents, Joe Chatwin and Dani, along with his nearly three-year-old brother George, have faced significant challenges managing hospital trips mainly to Bristol Children’s Hospital and Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. The frequent travel, accommodation, and daily necessities such as food have created financial strains for the family. They currently live in a two-bedroom flat but have been advised Arthur should have his own room, prompting their search for larger accommodation.
Joe shares, “Traveling for Arthur’s care is expensive—parking, overnight stays, food—it all adds up. We’re doing everything we can to support him and take care of George too, who has been incredibly strong through all of this.”
Despite all the hardships, Arthur’s parents describe him as a joyful and energetic little boy who loves to crawl, is learning to walk, and delights in playing with his brother. George, too, has shown remarkable maturity in coping with his brother’s condition and hospital stays.
The family is currently fundraising to raise £3,500 to cover travel and accommodation expenses as they await a liver transplant. While the NHS will cover the surgery itself, these additional costs are a heavy burden.
Arthur’s story is a testament to strength and hope, embodying the spirit of a true little fighter as he continues to battle his condition with the love and dedication of his family by his side.