“His fight and courage continue to inspire us”

Lynsey cradles baby Raif, with daughter Joni

“Each stay in hospital came with more bad news, more medicines and more medical equipment to operate at home.” 

Despite all the stress, trauma and worry, Patrick and Lynsey cherished every moment with their boy. Now, these precious memories are motivating them to raise much-needed funds for Chestnut Tree House. 

“Chestnut Tree House came into Raif’s life when he was eight months old,” says Patrick. “At the time we were barely sleeping, getting used to tube-feeding and having some devastating conversations with his doctors.   

“After so much time divided between hospital and home, Chestnut offered a place where our family could be together.” 

At first, Chestnut Tree House provided respite – somewhere the family, including Raif’s big sister Joni, who was four at the time, could concentrate on being together. Later, when the time came for end-of-life care, the team helped them make memories and provided emotional support. 

Patrick, Lynsey, Raif and Joni in the pool at Chestnut Tree House

Lynsey says: “It is too difficult to describe the day-to-day reality of knowing your child’s life is ending. But I can say that with the support of the team at Chestnut, we were able to be emotionally present to enjoy all those last days, hours and minutes with our son without falling apart.   

“We called Raif ‘Mr Cuddles’ because he always wanted to be held, and the Chestnut team made sure we were able to cuddle him right up until the end.” 

Chestnut Tree House relies on donations to provide essential care and support to families. Community fundraiser Nicky Clark says: “We are so grateful for Patrick and Lynsey’s fundraising and wish them the best of luck with their incredible challenge in Raif’s memory. Chestnut Tree House exists to add life to shortened years, helping families make memories together in the way that’s right for them. It costs almost £9 million to run the hospice, with our NHS grant only funding less than a tenth of these costs.” 

For families such as the Lewseys, the benefits are incalculable. “Chestnut’s dedication to providing respite, end-of-life care, and bereavement support is truly remarkable,” says Patrick. “We are determined to give back to this incredible organisation, ensuring that other families can benefit from the care and compassion that we received.” 

To support Patrick and Lynsey with their fundraising in Raif’s memory, go to their JustGiving page.