REVEALED: Johnny Smacks shares positive update on newborn JJ during The 2 Johnnies podcast

Johnnysmacks has shared an update on the wellbeing of his newborn son JJ on the very popular podcast The 2 Johnnies, offering listeners a note of optimism after months of uncertainty and intensive medical care.

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Speaking during this week’s episode, he reflected on how dramatically his outlook has changed since this time last year.

JJ was born in mid December 2025 with a rare congenital condition and has been receiving specialist care at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin, Dublin, since birth.

He was diagnosed before delivery with gastroschisis, a condition in which parts of the intestines develop outside the body and which typically requires multiple surgical procedures in the early days of life.

Johnnysmacks firstly acknowledged the scale of public support the family has received. “First off I just want to say I can’t thank people enough for all the messages people have been sending.”

He went on to describe the goodwill directed towards his son with characteristic humour. “He’s been the most prayed for child, there is a good chance his first steps will be on water."

He was also keen to recognise the role of medical professionals who have cared for JJ throughout his treatment, expressing his thanks to all the health care staff at Children’s Health Ireland in Crumlin, Dublin.

The most encouraging development came with confirmation that JJ has now undergone his final surgical procedure. “He has had his fifth and final operation last week.” That operation marked a turning point in his recovery, paving the way for further progress.

Johnnysmacks explained that JJ has also reached a major developmental milestone, one that parents of newborns might otherwise take for granted.

JJ had his first bowel movement, a moment he described as hugely significant for both himself and his partner Annie McMahon.

Recounting the scene in the hospital, Johnny spoke about the sense of relief and celebration shared with nursing staff when the milestone was confirmed. “I felt like doing a Robbie keane (celebration) down the corridor”.

While JJ remains in hospital for now, the overall outlook has improved considerably. Johnnysmacks told listeners that the next step will be bringing JJ home, although he cautioned that this is likely still several weeks away.

“So it is great news he is on the road to recovery next step will be home which will probably be another few weeks, he said.”

Summing up the family’s current position, he added simply, “He’s going in the right direction”.

Listeners can hear the full update and discussion by tuning into The 2 Johnnies podcast on Spotify.

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