Sully’s Story

Our miracle, Sully, was born at 23 weeks gestation. My husband Zaheem and I knew we would be spending a lot of time in hospital if Sully did make it. Thankfully our little fighter was strong and lived in his little incubator for months, growing and learning how to breathe. During this time, we were offered accommodation at the Ronald McDonald House - Oxford. It came as a blessing during an uncertain time, especially with the restrictions of Covid, which didn’t even allow us to stay by his bedside. Alternatively, we were able to stay precisely 230 steps away from our son’s incubator, in a room called Milton. 

We stayed there for almost 5 months while Sully grew and fought. Now, we’d like to sponsor Milton for a year. This room gave us the space and peace we didn’t know we needed at the hardest time of our lives and we’d like to give this forward.

To raise funds, I will be applying mehndi/henna on Saturday 30th April from 12pm-6pm. All funds raised will go toward the sponsorship of Milton in Oxford House. We spent Sully’s first Eid in the house. Although it was a difficult and uncertain time, the comfort we felt in the house made all the difference.

Sometimes, the best medical care for a child isn't close to home. Ronald McDonald House Charities UK provides free 'home away from home' accommodation to families with children having treatment in specialist hospitals. Our 12 Houses offer much more than just a place to stay; they provide family activities, peer support, respite, and many other services. This means that families can be by their child's bedside in a matter of moments, whilst maintaining a degree of normal life with reduced emotional and financial strain.COVID-19 has impacted all our lives, but childhood illnesses don't stop during a pandemic, and families still need our support. That's why virtual fundraising is key, to still raise vital funds in the unprecedented times. On behalf of RMHC UK, thanks for supporting my virtual bucket collection.