Surprise package Jamie was an unexpected baby. His mother, Sharon, had severe postnatal depression after the birth of her two older children, Robert and Danielle, and decided to be sterilised. The operation didn't work, and Sharon soon discovered she was pregnant with Jamie. Jamie's dad, Ian, is a long-distance lorry driver and is often away from home. His absence, coupled with Sharon's anxiety, made for a difficult first year. Sharon's depression was controlled with hormone supplements and Ian changed his work pattern to spend more time at home. Jamie was late starting to speak and was often disobedient. Then doctors discovered he had a problem with his hearing that required grommets and, after these were fitted, Jamie blossomed. Diabetes diagnosis When Jamie was four, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. His blood-sugar levels need constant monitoring and he has frequent injections of insulin. Sharon gave up her job to support him and Ian had to get over his phobia of needles to help his son. Jamie's very active, keen on football, does tricks on his bike and scares Sharon with his antics on the trampoline. Sociable little boy By the age of six, Jamie was able to monitor his own blood-sugar levels and inject himself with insulin. Instead of allowing his dips in energy and the need for constant vigilance to affect his friendships, he is one of the most gregarious and cheerful boys in his class.
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