The Breathing Spaces project was inspired by Lisa and Mike Spinks' experience with their son Rory who spent the best part of his short life in hospital. The project has seen the development or refurbishment of over 20 rooms across over 20 UK hospitals, predominantly funded by The True Colours Trust. The rooms are designed to be non-clinical and comfortable, providing parents with a dedicated space away from their child’s bedside where they can have a cup of coffee, phone friends or family, or simply have a little breathing space.

Unfortunately, sitting rooms/kitchens for parents or carers in hospitals are often given very little thought but parents play a vital role in a child's care team, so this needs to be seriously re-evaluated. If we look after the parents, then they are better fuelled physically and emotionally to look after their child so everyone benefits.

Mike and Lisa have used the money they have raised to date in Rory's memory to create the new 'Breathing Spaces' rooms at Great Ormond Street Hospital where he spent much of his life. 4 rooms were planned but sadly due to increasing cost and delays through COVID, there was only enough money for 3 so this is why 10 brave, bold and bloody minded ladies are climbing Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scarfell Pike in 24 hours to make this 4th very needed room happen!

Mike and Lisa are determined to do what they can to make families' experiences in hospital more bearable, to help parents develop friendships, share their experiences and give them the space they deserve.

We would be so grateful if you could help them make this happen.

xxx