Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565

A family whose 10-year-old son needs around-the-clock care have spoken out about their hopes and fears as they adjust to life in extended self-isolation.

Chester Mcintosh, who has been supported by Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice since 2017, spent the first year of his life in hospital.

During the traumatic year, the family lived with the constant fear of losing their beloved son, a fear that was almost realised on more than one heart-breaking occasion.

Brave Chester battled on, defying doctors’ expectations every step of the way, and is now in his tenth year alongside his twin sister Rhianna.

Chester Mcintosh and dad Ian adjusting to life in isolation during hte coronvirus pandemic | Other 3rd Party

He was eventually diagnosed with a chromosome deletion disorder, which means his immune system only works to about 40 per cent of what would be expected. He also has chronic lung disease, suffers regular chest infections and has other serious health issues.

Chester, Rhianna, mum Lisa and dad Ian have been visiting their “Bluebell Wood family” in North Anston since 2017 for a much-needed helping hand.

Ian, a former carer who left his job to take care of Chester full-time, understands what the families of the 1.5 million most vulnerable people in society are going through.

“A lot of families are really terrified, which is completely understandable,” said Ian, aged 53, from Chesterfield.

“As someone with a vulnerable child you are always cautious – but this is a different ball game entirely.”

The family first became aware of the Covid-19 pandemic when the outbreak in China hit the news.

Ian said: “I remember saying to my wife Lisa that we need to be prepared for this.

“When you’re in a position like ours with a vulnerable child you’re acutely aware of just how quickly these infections can spread.

“Even in normal times we wouldn’t go to a busy supermarket in winter together or go out for a pub meal in flu season because the risk of infection to Chester is just too great.”

The family, who have always been hygiene conscious, are now taking extra steps to keep Chester safe. As well as small things, such as using bacterial wipes to take the bins out, they have set-up a temporary mailbox outside, so packages don’t come into the house unchecked.

Chesterfield family open up about fears for son