Hospital Transport for Terminally Ill Children

Scarlett will be five years old in August. She has an undiagnosed immune system defect, which makes her very susceptible to bacterial and viral infections.

In June 2014, Scarlett was so ill she was in an intensive care unit for eight weeks. Her health deteriorated to a point where she woke up unable to speak, walk, or even move.

Around this time, community nurses referred the family to Rainbow Trust, to help them get back on their feet. Scarlett’s family was paired with Linda, a Family Support Worker from their local Care Team. Linda spent much of her time with Kay, Scarlett’s mum, providing emotional support and giving her respite when she really needed it.

Linda’s support meant that Matt could return to work and provide for his family. “Linda stepped in when I had to be at work, she helped massively when Scarlett first came out of hospital and had to do treatment”. Over the next year she had countless visits to the hospital for chemotherapy. Linda helped by accompanying the family to hospital, driving them in her specially-adapted car so that Scarlett didn’t pick up an infection from using public transport, and giving Kay time to spend with Scarlett along the way.

Today, Scarlett is showing signs of recovery and her condition is being managed with medication. She has just started school and is now living the life of a normal youngster. Although she isn't completely cured, it is hoped that as she grows older, she will get stronger and healthier. 

Donations like yours help families like Matt and Kay’s. Our dedicated Family Support Workers are there for families when and how they are needed most, to be reliable and dependable, supportive and caring. Thank you, from all our families.