Thank you for taking the time to visit my just giving page in memory of my brother Sam.

My brother Sam Fitzgerald was diagnosed with Wilson’s disease when he was 14 years old. He was a normal teenage boy who went from loving and playing football to being in a wheelchair over a summer.

Over the past 10 years, Sam was in and out of hospital for his illness and for complications. In the last few years of Sam being poorly, we was put in contact with the charity Rainbows hospice for support with Sam and to offer some respite care for the family.

After a fall in July 2023, Sam was rushed into hospital with pneumonia and sepsis where we were told to say our goodbyes but miraculously, he pulled through to everyone’s surprise. He recovered from the pneumonia and sepsis but developed hepatic encephalopathy which damaged his liver and he was diagnosed with end of life liver disease.

When he was discharged, Rainbows invited Sam to stay for some respite. It was during this stay where Sam went downhill and we were given the news that he wasn’t going to be leaving. As a family, this was devastating news to hear. Rainbows offered support and accommodation for the family so we could be there for the end of his journey.

Sadly, he passed away peacefully at rainbows hospice on the 25th August 2023. Everyone at rainbows made our time as stress-free as possible by providing reassurance, emotional support, providing hot meals for the family and everything else we could have needed during such a turbulent time in our life.

The work that the charity do is amazing and helps families during these difficult times. We will never be able to show our gratitude or appreciation for everything they have offered us. Not only do they offer end of life care and support, but they also offer respite for children and families who need it the most. They hold support groups for mums, dads and siblings, they offer parents and children holistic massages, hydrotherapy swimming sessions for children who can't tolerate regular swimming pools, arts and crafts, games and cinema rooms, the list is endless, It truly is a extraordinary place.

I had decided to take on the challenge of running the London Marathon for Rainbows to try and raise money for them. They are fully funded by charity donations in order to keep up and running. Now anyone that knows me will know much of a challenge this will be for me as I do not run but I’m ready for the challenge!

I would be really grateful for any support from anyone to raise money for such an incredible place in memory of Sam and for any other children who have been taken too soon, but left the world surrounded by comfort at Rainbows.

Amber x

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More about Rainbows:

Team Rainbows are running together in the most iconic marathon in the world.

Sadly, some children just don't live long enough.

As the East Midlands only hospice for children and young people, Rainbows is a place where life-limited children and their families can find care and support. Our incredible team of people help relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, support parents and siblings through their bereavements and care for children until the end.

Please visit www.rainbows.co.uk to see what we do and hear from some of the families that we support.

Rainbows is a place where children can laugh, play and make every precious moment count, while families already bereaved are supported through the toughest times. Because of you and other supporters like you, a family will be able to make special memories they will cherish forever and bring a smile to their childs face as they laugh and play.

Please help the team brighten short lives - thank you