Heartbreak as baby who was too ‘chilled out’ during night diagnosed with cancer

A “chilled out” baby from Croydon was diagnosed with leukaemia after doctor’s spotted his rare symptoms.

Born in October of last year, Zak was a “chilled out” baby who slept through the night from just three months old.

Mitchell Moser, 23, and Tammy Chiraka, 25, noticed that their son had swollen glands and lumps on his head. After visiting their GP twice, they were told to come back if he deteriorated, MyLondon reports.

When his symptoms worsened, they took Zak to A&E at St George’s Hospital where doctors referred him urgently to the Blue Sky Centre, a care service for children and young people.

Two days later, Zak returned for a CT scan and blood tests and his parents were given the horrible news that their son had cancer. 

“Our hearts completely shattered,” Tammy told MyLondon. “Our world was completely flipped upside down, and we had no idea how we were going to cope with this news.”

The next day, Zak was transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital’s Primary Treatment Centre for four weeks of chemotherapy.

He also recieved daily anti-fungal medicine to protect his lungs and Tammy and Mitch avoided public transport to reduce his exposure.

Zak’s doctor Dr Hussain said: “We knew something wasn’t right when Zak came into our emergency department, but I’m pleased that we were able to help Zak receive a swift diagnosis so that he was able to start treatment quickly.”

After a few months, they received the news that Zak was in remission but would continue to receive treatment including another round of chemotherapy.

“It has honestly been a rollercoaster for us all but our family is very strong and we’re all fighters which I am extremely proud of,” said Tammy. “Zak is a very happy baby, especially now that he’s better. He does not stop talking, shouting, playing and being active.”