University Hospital Southampton surgeons and staff praised for saving the life of little Felix Southwell

Felix Christopher John Southwell was born with a heart problem on New Year’s Day and underwent two operations in the first week of his life.

He battled through them both, overseen by medics at University Hospital Southampton, and was back home in Maybush just 19 days later.

Felix celebrated his first month this week with parents Catherine Lock and Michael Southwell.

They say they will be forever grateful to consultant cardiac surgeon Markku Kaarne and his team.

Mum Catherine, a senior healthcare assistant at the hospital, told the Daily Echo: “Within two hours of being born, Felix had his heart valve done, which went well.

“At only seven days old, Felix would have his big heart operation. It was the longest day of our lives. He was in theatre five hours. They did an amazing job and he survived.

“I would like people to know how amazing Mr Kaarne and his team are. They saved Felix and I feel that they should get acknowledgement of the amazing work that they do. Thanks to Mr Kaarne and his team we have our baby Felix and I will be forever grateful to them.”

Catherine was alone at her 20 week scan due to Covid restrictions when she was told her baby had a heart problem. Rescanned just days later with partner Michael by her side, the couple were told their child would be born with transposition of the great arteries, a rare heart defect in which the two main arteries leaving the heart are reversed.

“The hospital explained everything to us and prepared us as best they could,” added Catherine.

After a difficult labour, Felix came into the world at Princess Anne Hospital just hours into the new year, weighing 8lbs 10oz.

“He was taken away straight away as he was born blue. But four doctors were with him so I knew he was in good hands.

“He was on a ventilator and it was very upsetting to see him all wired up. Just 24 hours after surgery, he was taken off the ventilator which was incredible, even the surgeon said how well he had done."

Felix is on medication and faces regular future checks. But he's feeding and sleeping well and his parents are looking forward to introducing him to family and friends when restrictions allow.