Please meet Sebastian, our Christmas star!

Sebastian's mum says;

"Sebastian is a fighter. He was born prematurely, and rushed to Alder Hey Children's Hospital on the day of his birth for extensive surgeries. He was later diagnosed with a very rare condition that affects multiple anatomical structures, including his oesophagus, stomach and intestines amongst others. He also had a tethered spinal cord. He was immediately fitted with a feeding tube directly into his stomach and a colostomy bag.

Sebastian spent the first 7 months of his life at Alder Hey, where he overcame many surgeries, procedures and complications. He remains 90% reliant on a feeding tube but is able to eat orally. Due to his challenges, Sebastian had terrible oral aversion, we are gradually introducing more and more food and drink to him. He still has his colostomy bag and we are unsure when or if he will ever be without one. Hes also high risk for respiratory infections and viruses so winter months are tough and he can quite quickly end up in hospital requiring breathing support.

At first, he'd only manage an hour and would scream the whole time. Now, thanks to the care and dedication of the team, hed go all day every day if he could! They have brought him out of his shell and given him a safe place to become the chatterbox he is today. They helped with his physical needs, helped him to learn to climb stairs, explore new foods and textures and to interact with other children. Its such a safe and caring environment.

Michelle, Seb's key person is a queen!! She has stayed by Seb's side from day one and given him the confidence to be who he is today. When Sebastian first attended Peter Pan, Michelle sat and watched diggers for hours on end on the iPad, now they enjoy having conversations about superheroes and his favourite video games. Shes the absolute best!!

Seb now loves socialising and meeting new people and cannot wait to go into reception next year. Hes a million miles away from where he started in life and he is thriving. Peter Pan has been and is simply amazing. Having children with additional needs is terrifying at times but thanks to Peter Pan we were all able to gradually adjust and we all had the support we needed. We wouldnt be where we are today without the support from everyone at the Centre. They hold a very dear place in our hearts and well forever be appreciative for all theyve done for Seb.

Our little girl has recently started Peter Pan with suspected autism. Prior to her starting we knew we only had to ask for any support we needed to help her, and it would be given." - Kim, Sebastian's mum

Be a Peter Pan star this Christmas.

Join in with our festive fundraising and give children like Sebastian a Christmas gift that lasts a lifetime. Give children with special needs their best chance in life.