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16 November 2009
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Calvin

"Ghutsley's my imaginary friend. He lives under my bed"

Calvin


Difficult pregnancy

Calvin as a baby

Calvin was born ten weeks early, in October 1999. His mother, Helen, had a difficult pregnancy. She suffered from hyperemesis, a violent and continuous form of morning sickness, which required repeated hospital treatment and almost ruined her wedding to Calvin's dad, Andy.

Calvin recovered well from his difficult start. He was a good eater and thrived thanks to the care of his parents and older sister, Lauren. Helen also recovered quickly and was soon working part time, while Andy worked long hours for a removal firm.

Helen and Andy's marriage didn't last and Helen moved out, taking the children with her. A difficult divorce followed.

New beginnings

Calvin

Helen found a new partner, Andrew, who became the children's stepfather. After several years this relationship ended amicably, and in 2006 they went their separate ways.

Helen now has a career in call centre management. Andy remarried, and he and his partner, Annmarie, run their own removal business.

Calvin's parents have put their difficult past behind them to ensure they both play an important role in his life.

Seeing clearly

Calvin

In 2006, Calvin was found to be extremely long-sighted. He wears glasses and has to wear an eye patch in the evenings to improve the sight in his weaker eye.

Calvin likes his glasses, and not only because they allow him to read clearly. According to him, he's "a cool glasses wearer".

He's very curious about the world around him, which he explores in the company of his imaginary friend, Ghutsley. Calvin loves to experiment and try new things.


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