RAF Logistics Officer Lois O’Connor and her former RAF aircraft technician husband, Josh, were looking forward to welcoming their new baby, a sibling for their 18-month-old son Lando.
However, at their 20-week scan in May 2023, they discovered the baby had only one kidney (a cardiac issue called an aortic arch), his oesophagus wasn’t complete and that he had an abnormal connection to his trachea. He would need urgent surgery as soon as he was born and a stay at the neonatal intensive care unit at Leicester Royal Infirmary. It was well over an hour away from the family home in Waddington.
Lois, who joined the RAF in 2019, said: “From where we live… [each scan and appointment] could easily take a day. And there was a lot of logistics involved to make sure Lando was looked after.”
The team at RAFAKidz Digby, Lando’s nursery, stepped up to help. “They understood the situation and they all genuinely cared. They checked in with us before and after appointments to make sure we were OK. They took the time to make sure Lando was settled, and they sent us regular updates, which helped put our minds at ease,” said Lois.
Flynn was born in September 2023 and, at just two days old, had lifesaving surgery. Lois and Josh were able to stay at the hospital but were warned they may have to give their room up at a moment’s notice. They then contacted the RAF Association’s welfare team. Josh worked for a private company, and the couple were worried his pay would be affected by having to spend so much time at the hospital and taking care of Lando.
The highly trained casework team sprang into action, providing emergency financial assistance to help the couple pay for essentials such as food and hospital parking. The team liaised with other charities and sourced just over £2,000, meaning Josh could be with his family and not have to worry about rushing back to work.
“The team stayed in touch almost weekly and were always courteous. The nursery also offered us an extra funded day if we needed it, which was so kind. They really went above and beyond for us,” said Lois.
Flynn is now thriving. Despite missing a kidney, he’s leading a normal life. He’s still under cardiac review but the medical team have advised he won’t need any more surgery, just regular check-ups which is a huge relief.
Lando and Flynn are now both at RAFAKidz Digby. “They adore their nursery,” said Lois. “They run in every morning, which tells me everything I need to know.”
Flynn after his surgery.
Flynn with his family and older brother Lando.
Lois is now on a mission to raise funds for the charity that supported them by running the London Marathon in April 2025.
If you would like to help Lois fundraise, you can donate here: rafa.org.uk/oconnor
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