On the 22nd October 2021, Elsie was transferred to Chestnut Tree House Children’s hospice, nestled in a beautiful corner of the Sussex country side. It meant more than words can say that at the end of her life, we were able to bring her that bit closer to home. The wonderful team made it possible for us  to invite a few friends and family to meet our daughter, hold a dedication ceremony for her there and simply treasure moments together with our darling girl. 

When the time came for Elsie’s ventilator to be removed, the three of us were moved into our own private bedroom called ‘Hedgehog’ suite in the ‘Wind in the Willows’ wing (as shown in the picture above). Instead of the loud, bright, clinical environment Elsie had spent all of her life in, Hedgehog room felt, calm, safe and homely. In her final hours, the three of us curled up on a sofa together, with doors open looking out over the garden, whilst staff waited just outside the door should we have needed them.

After her passing, the room was equipped for Elsie to remain there with us. We were able to make hand and footprints with our beautiful girl, give her a wash, put her into her pajamas and tuck her into bed. As we tried to process the unimaginable, staff were there to gently guide us when we needed support, whilst also giving plenty of space and privacy when we needed that too. 

It costs £776 to run Hedgehog room for a day and a night. We would be honored if, in Elsie’s memory, we were able to provide this facility for another family navigating the devastating loss of a child. Any additional funds raised will go towards hand/feet die cast kits. These kits cost £26 each and are such a precious keepsake for bereaved families.