9 Raring2go! Hayden came into our world, diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis - a life-limiting condition involving nebulisers, physiotherapy and endless feeding. We moved to Sussex discovering I was pregnant again. Ella spent her first month in hospital with suspected meningitis. After many hospital visits, she was finally diagnosed with Aicardi Syndrome – a rare genetic neurological disorder. She’ll experience lifelong challenges with her disabilities- seizures, non-mobile and completely dependent. A few years on, alone most of the week as my husband works away, trying to balance work, hospital appointments, school, nursery and two highly dependent young children is physically, mentally and financially challenging. Hayden’s nursery recommended Home-Start. Jo, my volunteer, has been amazing. She helps me get jobs done, she plays with the kids whilst I shower. She helps me leave the house and connect with others. She enables me to carve out a bit of time for myself and not feel guilty. She eases my loneliness, offers advice and lets me offload. We haven’t celebrated Christmas in years, but with Jo’s help, I’m hopeful this year we may even get some decorations up. I can’t thank Jo and Home-Start enough. They are an absolute god send. Please donate whatever you can afford to the Home-Start Christmas Appeal today. You will make an enormous difference to the lives of so many local families like mine this Christmas. Scan the QR code (above), visit www.home-startawa.org.uk or call 01903 889707. Atanya’s story
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