John's fundraiser for Acorns Children's Hospice Trust
Story
In December 2019 we received the exciting news that we were expecting our first child!
In early 2020 we learnt that they had a life limiting condition called Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18), and that they were likely to have a life expectancy measured in hours, if they even made it to birth.
From this point on we included her as a member of the family, naming her Henrietta (our Hettie) and including her in family life as much as we could, determined that we would continue fighting for her as long as she did.
She was born by elective C-section in August 2020, and continued to be a fighter. It was at this point we first heard of Acorns Children’s Hospice when we were transferred there from the maternity ward. They were amazing, providing us with care and support as well as caring for Hettie. Hettie was only in the hospice for a few days before she came home with us, but this time allowed us to learn how to feed her and provide her medication via her NG tube.
Our little Hettie was with us for 8 unforgettable weeks, during which time we knew that, alongside the NHS services, Acorns was standing with Hettie. Acorns support for us as a family continues to this day.
They truly are an amazing organization, and I hope to be able to raise not only funds for, but awareness of this charity so that they can continue to be there when children and families are at their most vulnerable.
Worcester News Article
Acorns have organised a 14.5 Km (9 mile) night hike up Pen Y Fan (the highest peak in Southern Wales). Starting at 02:00 (Sun 11th May) in the morning we will be arriving at the summit in time to watch the sun rise (weather permitting!) and reflect.
Then we have to hike back down!
All of the people hiking will be associate with Acorns through the care and support they have given their children.
A parent never imagines their child will be diagnosed with a life limiting or life threatening condition. But when the unimaginable happens, Acorns steps in, helping families cope at every stage of their child’s life and beyond, wherever and whenever they need it.
Acorn's dedicated teams provide specialist palliative care for children and young people from our three hospices, based in Worcester, Birmingham and Walsall, and in the community.
Every year, Acorns cares for more than 750 children, and nearly 1,000 families, including those who are bereaved.
Acorns need £30,000 per day to provide our services and we rely on donations and fundraising by the community for the bulk of this amount. Your support will help us be here for even more local life limited children and their families.
Together, we are stronger.
