On May 8, 2019, a significant milestone marked the 100th day of Guo Yize's life. But unlike most infants celebrating this occasion surrounded by family at home, Yize spent his 100th day in the transplantation ward of the Hematology Oncology Center at Beijing Jingdu Children's Hospital . Afflicted with Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome (WAS), a rare and severe primary immunodeficiency disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100,000 - 250,000 live births globally, Yize's journey was far from ordinary.
WAS is characterized by a triad of symptoms: eczema, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), and immunodeficiency, leaving patients highly vulnerable to infections, bleeding, and malignancies. For Yize, his first 100 days were filled with medical procedures, including daily blood draws and examinations using cold medical instruments. These experiences were a far cry from the warmth and comfort that a newborn should experience.
Yize's mother vividly recalled the heart-wrenching days when her son, born just 28 days prior, was already facing the harsh realities of his condition. "Every time I saw him endure those needles and cold instruments, my heart broke into a million pieces," she shared. "I felt a deep sense of guilt and helplessness, wishing I could take his pain away. While other babies were being breastfed and held lovingly by their mothers, my son was surrounded by bitter medications and cold needles."
The family's financial struggles added to their burden. Despite facing discouragement and suggestions to give up, Yize's parents refused to lose hope. "We borrowed money from everywhere," his mother said firmly. "Even if the whole world gave up on my son, I would never abandon him. We brought him into this world, and we owed him a chance at life."
Their perseverance led them to Dr. Sun Yuan, the director of Beijing Jingdu Children's Hospital. " When we first met Dr. Sun, her smile was like a ray of sunshine in our darkest hour," Yize's mother remembered. "It was at that moment that I finally felt a sense of belonging and relief, as if we had found our savior."
Under the care of Dr. Sun and the entire medical team at Jingdu, Yize's condition gradually improved. Through meticulous treatment and continuous monitoring, they managed to overcome a severe infection, a life-threatening complication for WAS patients. Yize's weight increased from a mere 3.3 kilograms (6.6 pounds) to 6 kilograms (12 pounds), and his vital signs returned to normal.
"Thanks to the incredible efforts of everyone at Jingdu Children's Hospital, we now have a complete family," Yize's mother expressed with tears of gratitude. "They have given us hope, warmth, and the greatest gift of all—our son's life."
This touching story of Yize's fight against WAS is a testament to the power of medical expertise, parental love, and unwavering determination. It serves as an inspiration for families facing similar challenges and highlights the importance of never giving up hope. If you know someone going through a difficult medical journey, share Yize's story and let them know that there is always hope for a brighter future.
EN
CN