Heybridge: Father holding fundraiser in memory of late son

Foyaj Miah is holding the event at Bengal Nights restaurant in Heybridge.

He formerly ran popular Indian eatery Curry Nights in Maldon High Street.

The event is to support Great Ormond Street Hospital, in London, in recognition of their efforts in caring for his late son, Zaid.

Zaid was born in April 2003, but faced a number of medical problems, including a congenital brain abnormality, chromosomal abnormality, severe developmental delay, the inability to swallow and an aortic valve prolapse.

He underwent a gastronomy operation at Great Ormond Street, which allowed him to be fed with liquid food through a tube, directly into his stomach.

Bottles of food formula and equipment were supplied once a month by Great Ormond Street.

Zaid’s mother Lipi was trained to feed Zaid safely.

As he grew, further problems meant he did not develop in the same way as other children, being unable to walk or talk, and requiring 24-hour care.

Gratitude - Mr Miah has organised the fundraiser to thank Great Ormond Street for their care towards his late son, Zaid (Image: Foyaj Miah)Zaid attended Columbus School and College in Chelmsford and had a carer called Shirley who came to help for a few hours every day, over 14 years.

The youngster continued to visit Great Ormond Street due to chest infections, and for check-ups and outpatient appointments.

Surgeons hoped to carry out an operation to correct Zaid’s heart valve, but he was not strong enough for surgery to take place.

Mr Miah said his son was a “cheerful boy” despite the problems he faced and the only times Zaid was not happy were during illness or pain.

He said: “Lipi was devoted to her son, and worked tirelessly to make sure he had everything he needed. 

“She made sure he did not miss out on the family trips to Bangladesh to visit friends and relatives.”

In January 2020, Lipi took Zaid and his younger brother to Bangladesh, accompanied by the boys’ uncle, having first checked that Zaid was fit to travel.

Sadly, Zaid died on February 5, 2020 on the return flight to Heathrow after suffering heart failure.

He was just 16.

Mr Miah said: “We cannot over-emphasise all the help, support and kindness shown by the doctors, nurses and their support staff at Great Ormond Street. 

“Without their help, Zaid would probably not have lived as long as he did. 

“They are amazing people who do so much for those children who need it, which is why we are holding a fundraising event to help them continue doing their wonderful work and to say a big 'thank you' on Zaid’s behalf.”

The fundraising event will take place on Wednesday, May 29, and Thursday, May 30, beginning at 6pm on both evenings.

A three-course meal will cost £29.95 per head, with 50 per cent of the takings going to Great Ormond Street.

There will also be a raffle and music. 

Representatives from Great Ormond Street and Columbus School and College will also be in attendance.