Hollywood actors and Wrexham AFC owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have donated £10,000 to support a cause deeply connected to the heart of their football club’s community. Your generous contribution went to the Royal Bolton Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in honor of Jude, the son of Wrexham AFC player James Jones and his partner, Chloe, who fought a critical battle for survival after birth 15 weeks early.
Jude’s journey began in November 2022, weighing just 1lb 4oz and requiring an immediate transfer to Bolton for specialist care following his birth at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. His parents described the harrowing moment, recalling times when they feared his “little, fragile baby” would not survive. “There is nothing more terrifying than seeing a room full of nurses and doctors running towards your baby without hesitation, to try to save their life,” they shared.
The couple’s ordeal included Chloe facing serious health problems shortly after Jude’s birth, suffering from pre-eclampsia and HELLP syndrome, which caused two seizures and multiple organ failure. Throughout these crises, Bolton medical staff provided critical, life-saving care, earning the lifelong gratitude of Jude’s parents. “We can’t thank the nurses, doctors and consultants enough for saving me and Jude. The work they do day in and day out is incredible,” Chloe said. Manchester Evening News.
Today, Jude is thriving against all odds and meeting every milestone with a smile, despite his ongoing battle with chronic lung disease and adrenal insufficiency caused by his extreme prematurity and the necessary treatments. His parents proudly proclaim, “Jude is beating the odds and absolutely thriving! He is the happiest child!
To give back to the unit that saved their son, Chloe and James have started a fundraising campaign with a target of £20,000 to support Our Bolton NHS Charity, Spoons and CHERISH at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. Their story, amplified by Reynolds and McElhenney’s involvement, has already raised significant awareness and funds, helping them get closer to their goal.
The impact of his story extends beyond financial contributions. Cath Bainbridge, midwife for neonatal services in Bolton, and Sarah Skinner, charity manager at Our Bolton NHS Charity, expressed their deep gratitude for the family’s efforts and the community support. Their initiatives highlight the profound difference that community and compassion can make in the lives of families facing unimaginable challenges.
Reynolds and McElhenney’s involvement in this cause is just one aspect of their wider commitment to the Wrexham community, showcased in their Disney+ show ‘Welcome to Wrexham’, which follows the highs and lows of the football club’s journey. Their actions reflect a sincere commitment to the club’s fans and the broader community, emphasizing that their roles as club owners transcend the business of sports.
More details about the family’s fundraising efforts can be found at their GoFundMe pagewhere the community continues to rally support for this heartfelt cause.
