LITTLE Sam Field, who is battling meningitis, could be on the mend.
He is expected to be moved out of a hospital intensive care unit this weekend.
But his parents say they are playing “a waiting game”.
The Dalton youngster has undergone a series of exhausting tests in hospital to discover the extent of his condition.
And over the past 24 hours, he has shown signs of some movement, even though he remains in the intensive care unit at Leeds General Infirmary.
Sam is the older brother of Dalton toddler Oliver Field, who himself was in the unit only weeks ago.
He is having chemotherapy treatment to combat a rare form of cancer.
Paul and Laura Field are keeping well wishers updated with postings on a Facebook site set up to promote the Oliver Field appeal.
That is to raise funds to enable him or other youngsters to have pioneering treatment abroad.
Oliver may need it to treat his neuroblastoma.
In the latest posting, Laura said: “Sam has had a good day.
“He’s been awake for short periods, had his breathing tube removed and even sucked on an ice lolly.
“He seems to understand basic questions, but is still in a lot of pain with his head and stiff neck, and can only manage little weak movements.
“He can’t even cough so the physiotherapist has been regularly to clear his chest.
“Lots of improvements but more than happy with baby steps.”
Paul said: “It is great news. He is still in pain but he did have another ice lolly and we hope he can be moved on to an ordinary ward soon.
“He is likely to be in hospital for at least another couple of weeks.”
Five-year-old Sam was rushed into hospital last weekend and has remained in the intensive care unit ever since, having been diagnosed with Group A streptococcal meningitis.
His parents have been at his bedside and have been inundated with messages of support from people all over Huddersfield, touched by the plight of their two sons.
In an earlier Facebook posting, Laura said: “Sam had a really busy day. He had MRI tests, saw the eye doctors, ultra sound tests, X-rays, electro cardiograph tests and lumbar puncture.
“It was non stop for him.”
She said the MRI tests showed swelling to the left side of his brain, but nothing looking overly damaged elsewhere.
“They just said it’s a waiting game now.”
