THE family of a Co Down teenager who suffered a brain aneurysm in Spain have hailed his gradual recovery as a “Christmas miracle”.
Jamie Doyle (18), from Banbridge, was put in an induced coma in Gran Canaria and had three brain surgeries after he collapsed on December 18 while on holiday with his parents Mary (50) and Stephen (52) and friend George.
His collapse was a double tragedy for the family after his older brother Dominic’s two-week-old son died suddenly last month.
Jamie’s family feared the worst after doctors told them the teenager would be in an induced coma for between four to six weeks.
But on Christmas Eve, he squeezed his mother’s hand. On Christmas Day, he recognised both his parents.
The teenager is still in intensive care after he suffered an infection and "has a long way to go", his mother Mary said.
The infection has delayed his recovery.
But his doctors believe he will heal properly over time.
His uncle Willie Fitzpatrick is caring for Jamie’s brothers Dominic (23), Jude (16) and Callum (13) while their parents remain at their son’s bedside. The family also has an older son, 25-year-old Thomas.
Mr Fitzpatrick, who coaches Down Gaelic Football Masters, said the family feel their prayers for Jamie have been answered.
“It’s a Christmas miracle,” he said.
“It’s unbelievable. It was the best news you could have.”
Mr Fitzpatrick said doctors noticed an improvement in Jamie’s condition on Christmas Eve.
“He squeezed his mummy’s hand and a wee tear came out of his eye,” he said.
“On Christmas Day Jamie woke. He asked about the boys at home.
“He really came round on Wednesday.”
Jamie, a barber and talented amateur boxer, was previously diagnosed with a brain condition which he may have had since birth.
The teenager will have to wait for up to four weeks for his skull to heal.
“I’m a great believer in faith," Mr Fitzpatrick said. "I prayed and I prayed and I prayed. Talk about prayers being answered.”
Mr Fitzpatrick said the family are now hopeful that Jamie could be flown back to Northern Ireland within several months.
“We just want him home," he said. "With the new year coming in we couldn’t have asked for better news.”
Jamie’s family are attempting to raise money to go towards his medical bills and accommodation costs. Almost £66,000 of the £100,000 target has been raised so far.
Mr Fitzpatrick said the family were very grateful for all the support.
“So many people have come forward with donations,” he said.
Donations towards Jamie’s medical bills and costs can be made via www.gofundme.com/f/help-save-jamies-life
