We have just experienced something that I always thought happens to other people, something that I never thought would happen to my family! Our beautiful, healthy, 6 year old daughter Isabelle acquired Purpura Fulminans, secondary to Varicella, an extremely rare and life threatening condition resulting from Chicken Pox, a very common and normally considered relatively minor childhood illness.

We were unexpectedly transferred by emergency ambulance to
the Intensive Care Unit of Great Ormond Street Hospital for Isabelle to receive the specialist medical attention she so urgently needed.

Unfortunately, as Intensive Care doesn’t have facilities for
parents to stay we were unable to remain by Isabelle’s bedside during her night time care.

The hospital referred us to The Sick Childrens Trust charity
that provide “Homes from Home” accommodation to ensure families, not just one parent but both parents and siblings can stay together whilst their seriously ill children are receiving treatment at hospital. 

The Sick Childrens Trust provided a welcome sanctuary for us
to stay, ensuring that if there was an emergency or Isabelle simply cried out for Mummy, got upset or just wanted to see a familiar face for a cuddle, we had a direct dial contact with the hospital and could be at our daughter’s side within minutes.

Through the Sick Childrens Trust we also found a community
of people who, whilst not in the same situations, are experiencing similar emotions and anxieties, you can share your story with and gain strength from.

Today there are seven ‘Homes from Home’ at major hospitals
around the country, where families can stay free of charge, for as long as they need whilst their child is undergoing treatment, which can in some cases mean months even years.  Since beginning 30 years ago The Sick Childrens Trust has supported more than 40,000 families.

We will never be able to thank The Sick Childrens Trust enough for helping us through our living nightmare.