A former boxing champion turned trainer, Jason Cunningham, is battling with a different kind of fight after his son was born premature. Cheance John Cunningham was born four months premature, weighing only 1.5 pounds at Hull Royal Infirmary on 19 March. Cunningham and his partner, Bec, were told that Cheance had a 45% chance of survival. However, the newborn has continued to improve with every passing day.
Cunningham said that he and his family were completely caught off guard by the unexpected arrival of his son. His partner, Bec, had just found out that she was five months pregnant with their second child a week before Cunningham’s first fight as a head trainer was due to take place. Days later, Bec went into labour and Cheance was born.
Bec had not been able to hold her newborn for the first 10 days of his life, and the couple did not know when they could finally bring their son home. Nevertheless, they remain optimistic as they hold on to the belief that Cheance is a survivor and a fighter. Cunningham himself was a professional boxer who won the British, European, and Commonwealth titles during his 12-year career.
Premature births are not uncommon in the UK, with an estimated 60,000 babies born early every year. Such an event may prove life-altering for a family, but the Cunninghams continue to remain hopeful for their son’s bright future. With the best care and support from hospital staff, the newborn is being fought for and his health continues to improve, inspired by the determination of his parents
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