'Miracle baby' faces new battle

3:56pm Thursday 10th April 2008

Miracle baby Brandon Kramer, the tiny tot who defied doctors' predictions that he would be born severely disabled, faces a new fight as his family battles eviction from their flat and the possibility of being left homeless.

Throughout her pregnancy Becky Weatherall and partner Kris Kramer were advised to consider termination because of the problems Brandon might have.

They were even told he would not survive more than a few hours, but refused to give up on her unborn child.

The cost of train travel, basic accommodation and time off work to attend hospital proved too much for the couple on their already low incomes and eventually took its toll on rent payments for their privately-owned property in Pembroke Dock.

After accumulating extensive debts as a result of fortnightly check-ups at the Heath Hospital in Cardiff, Becky has been declared bankrupt.

"It just spiralled out of control," said Becky. "I had no choice but to go bankrupt."

Kris added: "Next thing we knew there was a solicitor at the door with an eviction notice."

Becky later made inquiries with the county council about her housing situation, only to find she was not eligible for help.

"They told us that because we chose travelling to Cardiff over paying our rent, we chose to become bankrupt and homeless," she added.

"I feel like I'm being punished for making the choices I did about Brandon's life."

The couple were told they would need to look to the private sector for accommodation, but on their current income, even the lowest rates would cripple them.

Becky's dad, Pembroke Dock Mayor Cllr Paul Weatherall, said: "It might be legally right but it's morally wrong."

Local MP Nick Ainger also wrote to the council expressing his concern for the couple's predicament.

A spokesman for Pembrokeshire County Council said: "Pembrokeshire County Council housing staff are prepared to work with Miss Weatherall and her landlord to try and keep her in her present private-rented accommodation.

"A housing officer has been advising her about her options and will continue to do so."