Family stories

Tyler’s story

"Our family needs support we can rely on. And like every family, we need fun too. Chestnut makes both possible."

Archie’s story

Archie was born with half a heart. And at the tender age of six he's already had multiple surgeries to help his condition, including open heart surgery. Archie's Dad, Ed, tells us about the realities of having a child with a life-limiting illness, and what Chestnut means to them.

Lilly’s story

Meet Lilly. Lilly is a fun-loving 10-year-old who loves a soak in the bath before bed. Lilly has been profoundly deaf since birth and has severe complex needs – meaning that touch is by far her strongest sense.

Mikey’s story

Mikey was just nine-months old when he was fitted with a tracheostomy to help him breathe. His condition is so complex that he's the only one in the world with his condition - Mum, Chevonne gives us a glimpse into their life.

Gracie’s story

Gracie has epilepsy and a rare disorder called Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome. Her mum, Aly, shares what it's like living with both.

Andre’s story

Just like any 11-year-old, Andre loves music, going to school and spending time with his big sister, but unlike many boys his age he also has a life-shortening disorder called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Maisy-Leigh’s story

Get to know Maisy-Leigh and her family. Mum Hayleigh gives us a glimpse into their lives together and how Maisy-Leigh's rare genetic condition shapes their lives.

Tiger-Lily’s story

Vicky introduces us to her daughter Tiger-Lily. Since birth Tiger-Lily's needed round the clock care and ventilation due to a rare illness she was born with. Vicky tells us what her journey's been like and how the Chestnut Tree team have been there for support and care.

Heidi and Eloise’s story

"The main thing Chestnut Tree House gave us was time as a family"

Faith’s story

“I contacted Lucy, a Community Nurse at the hospice, who listened to our story and said that they were there to support us in any way. Whether Faith passed away at birth or if we needed end-of-life care, we wouldn’t just have a baby and have to walk away.”

Jacob’s story

Jacob has lots of complex medical needs - he loves spending time outdoors and splashing around in the swimming pool, His Mum tells us all about their life.

Jack’s story

“Jack is our beautiful miracle baby. At three weeks old, we thought we would have to say goodbye to him. They told us he would never walk, never sit up, never speak.”

28 May 2020

Zac’s story

3 August 2020

Louiza’s story

Louiza was born a healthy baby, but at four months old her Mum, Amanda, started to notice that something was wrong.

Finlay’s story

“We weren’t ready to say goodbye and the team at the hospital knew that. They searched for a local children’s hospice where we could go, and they found Chestnut Tree House.”