Family support and laughter for Oliver

Two-year-old Oliver receives support from Hospice in the Weald for Children and loves books, playing with anything that has wheels – and he adores messy play. Here, Oliver’s mum, Charlotte, shares his story and explains the impact support has on the whole family, whilst enabling Oliver to thrive and be a child.

baby oliver with his parents in hospital

baby oliver with his parents at the beach

“Oliver was born two months early and was diagnosed with tracheomalacia, which means that a part of his windpipe, the upper trachea, is floppy. That created issues with his breathing. When Oliver started receiving support from the children’s team, they were reassuring and right from day one, he loved the sessions.

“They got to know him so well, and every single week, they bring out a completely different selection of things for him to do.”

“They have transformed things for me, too. Oliver requires around-the-clock supervision and monitoring. He can’t be left alone, even when sleeping. When the ladies are here, I can do bits and bobs that I can’t ordinarily do and even catch up on some sleep. It also helps with doing things that I enjoy and catching up on ‘Oliver admin’.

oliver with children's team in the garden

“Oliver is unable to attend nursery currently, but when the ladies visit, it sets up a sort of nursery environment. It really helps his social development, and it’s made such a positive impact on all of us as a family. When I show Oliver pictures of the Hospice ladies, he gets really excited, the doorbell rings, and he’s running to the door; he’s so happy to see them.

“Initially, I had all the same reservations as many people do when they hear about hospice care. But it’s not that way at all. It’s 100% about having a positive impact on your child and respite for mums, dads, and guardians. It’s just invaluable, and we’re so grateful to everyone for their support.”

oliver and charlotte having a visit from hayley childrens healthcare assistant

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