Oliver is six months old and has been a patient in a Children’s Hospital since birth and has remained there due to the complexity of his medical conditions. Oliver was born prematurely and has several complex medical needs relating to his Endocrine and Respiratory systems. It is hopeful that Oliver will be discharged from hospital in the next few weeks. Once and when he is ready for discharge, he will be leaving with feeding and breathing supports.

Oliver loves when there is someone sitting near to him reading him a book, singing him songs or simply just being present with him. He loves to smile and when he is feeling well, he likes to be held close to his carer’s chest. Oliver needs a foster carer competent in managing respiratory support, such as oxygen. His foster carer(s) will need to be able to recognise if Oliver’s condition deteriorates and recognise systems of respiratory distress and low sugars. They will also need to be competent in PEG feeding/cleaning.  

Oliver will require Occupational Therapy (OT), and will need ongoing support for visual, movement and repositioning and supporting his sensory processing. Given Oliver’s medical needs, it is important that his carer(s) live within 45 mins drive from a hospital.   

We are urgently looking for a caring individual or a couple to provide foster care for Oliver to meet his ongoing medical needs following his discharge from hospital. Full training on all his medical needs will be provided along with a generous support package to ensure his foster carer(s) is well supported in meeting his needs.

For more information, please contact Tusla's national freephone fostering number 1800 226 771 or email tusla.fostering@tusla.ie. More details on tusla fostering services can be found on fostering.ie