When Lauren Atkins and William Bromley welcomed their son Charlie into their lives, they were thrilled. Jessie, their daughter, may have been even more thrilled, already having a soft spot for her younger brother. At first, the hospital flagged a potential issue when they noticed that Charlie had a sacral dimple at birth. But it wasn’t until Charlie experienced severe constipation for an extended period of time that Lauren took him to the doctor. Eventually, Charlie was diagnosed with tethered cord syndrome, a rare stretch-induced functional disorder.

Eventually, Charlie, now age 2, underwent surgery to fix his condition. He had two vertebrae removed and a bunch of nerves untangled, but is expected to make a full recovery. 

According to the Oxford Mail, 10-year-old Jessie was incredibly thankful to the doctors at Oxford Children’s Hospital for helping her brother. So she decided to hold a fundraiser to support the hospital. Jessie raised money by eating weird or unique foods.

At first, Jessie was hoping to raise £200 (approx. $249.90) for the hospital. However, that number kept growing and growing as Jessie ate a Bounty, black olives, Brussels sprouts, mayonnaise and apples, spam, and numerous other snacks. Ultimately, she ended up raising £730 (approx. $912.13) to donate to the hospital. Jessie is excited and proud of her accomplishment – but she is most excited to have her brother home. 

About Tethered Cord Syndrome

Tethered cord syndrome, or tethered spinal cord syndrome, is a rare neurological disorder in which the caudal spinal cord is attached (tethered) to spinal tissue. This tethering prevents the movement of the spinal cord within the spinal column, creating increased tension and movement limitations. So what causes tethered cord syndrome? Well, this condition could be caused by congenital abnormalities such as spinal cord defects, genetics, or spina bifida. However, tethered cord syndrome may also result from infections, tumors, or scar tissue near the spinal cord. Symptoms vary, but may include:

• Scoliosis (abnormal spinal curvature)
• Foot and spinal deformities
• Leg pain and numbness
• Lower back pain
• Skin tags or tufts of hair on the skin
• Walking on the toes
• Poor bladder or bowel control
• Progressive or repeated muscle contractions
• Frequent urinary tract infections

Learn more about tethered cord syndrome.