Rosey's story

11 Sep 2018, 1:04 p.m.

Patient Rosey

Rosey, 5 from London has been treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) since she was a baby. Rosey has a condition known as VACTERL association which is a name to describe a condition which presents a number of associated symptoms. This affects lots of her body including her heart, bowel, bladder, oesophagus, larynx and spine and she has had to have 20 operations and procedures in her short life time.

Coming to GOSH 

Rosey’s mum Rachel was not aware of Rosey’s condition until after she was born when Rosey’s midwife spotted an abnormality on the lower part of Rosey’s body which would affect her stomach and bowel. At just one day old Rosey had surgery to insert an emergency colostomy bag so that she was able to pass waste. She then spent ten weeks recovering in the special care baby unit where doctors could monitor her progress.

During this time doctors discovered other complications that would affect Rosey’s heart, bowel, and spine. Rosey was soon transferred to GOSH for genetic testing to help find a diagnosis for her condition. Doctors eventually diagnosed Rosey with VACTERL association, a very rare condition.

At just six months old Rosey had surgery to repair a whole in her heart caused by condition. Since then Rosey has had lots of surgeries on her bowel, bladder, and oesophagus to help her feel more comfortable.

Patient Rosey and family

Being part of the programme 

Rosey is a familiar face on the surgical wards bringing a smile to all the staff who take care of her. Rosey and her family enjoyed taking part in Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. Rosey’s mum Rachel said “we’re so proud of Rosey and we love seeing her on TV”

The staff who looked after Rosey

Little heroes

Toddler who spent life in hospital is thriving after life-saving transplant

A family who spent the best part of 13 months in hospital praise their ‘new family’ at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), who cared for their son while he waited for a life-saving heart transplant.

Scientists discover clues to help children with rare muscle disease

New ground-breaking research by experts at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and University College London (UCL) has led to an exciting discovery that could help children with the rare muscle disease, juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM).

GOSH-led trial of AI-scribe technology shows ‘transformative’ benefits for patients and clinicians across London

A major GOSH-led study has found that AI-scribing technology can significantly reduce clinician workload while improving patient care

GOSH marks Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Join us in the Lagoon on 3, 4 and 30 September between 11am and 2pm for a range of activities to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.