Born on September 13, 2006, he is going through a huge process to try to lead as normal a life as possible.

Mum Stephanie, from Ullswater Gardens, Jarrow, dubs the tot, who suffers from ultra-rare Nager Syndrome, her "miracle baby".

She has nominated him for Child of Courage in the Pride of South Tyneside Awards.

The 21-year-old said: "Jake is a truly amazing little boy who has battled against all odds."

Miss Roberts was told to "prepare for the worst" when her son had to be resuscitated at birth.

He was put on a breathing machine until he had his first life-saving operation – a tracheostomy – at less than 24 hours old.

Miss Roberts spent: "He spent his first four days in intensive care, where he could not have a cuddle from his mammy when he needed it the most."

Nager Syndrome affects just 80 people in the world, and has left Jake with two large holes in his heart, under-developed ears, a cleft palate, absent thumbs, a shortened right arm, a small jaw and dismorphic features.

Miss Roberts said: "Jake spent his firts six weeks in hospitals before he was eventually discharged home, so he could put on enough weight to undergo open heart surgery."

Jake had the operation at the age of four months, and only spent a week of what could have been several in hospital.

He faces more surgery and still needs daily medication, but is slowly getting stronger, and sat up unaided for the first time shortly before his first birthday.