Chestnut is here for families. Will you be here for us?

When Zoe and Owen found out they were expecting a baby, they were delighted – and looking forward to spending their first Christmas together as a family.

But at the first scan, they received the news no parent wants to hear: their baby’s brain wasn’t developing as it should.

When he was born, genetic tests revealed their son Loui had an extremely rare, degenerative genetic condition. Sadly, Loui’s condition deteriorated, and he died at just six weeks old.

For Zoe and Owen, coming home without him was devastating. At first, Zoe struggled to leave the house but just before Christmas last year, she started coming to Chestnut Tree House for counselling. Now, with the hospice’s help, she can see that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Christmas can be a difficult time of year – a time families need us more than ever.

But sadly, this winter, we are having to make some difficult decisions.

Hospices nationwide are in a funding crisis, and Chestnut Tree House isn’t immune. Government funding for our vital care hasn’t kept pace with rising costs, while demand for our services grows.

There are more families we want to support, but instead we’re having to make tough choices about what services we can provide in the future.