Neurodivergent space at A&E Prince Charles Hospital

THE ELLIS CUMMINGS APPEAL

Hi all, we are Robert and Gemma Cummings . We are proud parents of 4 sons. Our youngest son Ellis isn’t like his boisterous rugby playing brothers, Ellis is quiet and unsocial… Ellis has Autism and is non verbal.

As a parent of a neurodivergent child, I know firsthand how overwhelming and terrifying a visit to A&E can be. The bright lights, loud noises, and unfamiliar faces all create a sensory overload that leaves our children anxious, frightened, and often misunderstood. For neurodivergent children like my son, Ellis, these environments can feel unbearable.

Each time we bring Ellis to the hospital, we face a heartbreaking struggle to soothe him as he encounters a world he doesn’t understand. While the doctors and nurses do their best, they don’t always have the resources to help him feel safe. It’s devastating to watch, knowing he’s not only dealing with a medical issue but also a barrage of overwhelming sensory input that worsens his anxiety.

No parent should have to watch their child suffer because the environment around them is too overwhelming. Every neurodivergent child deserves a place where they can feel calm, grounded, and understood, especially in a medical setting.

That’s why I’m reaching out with this heartfelt plea for your support. We’re raising funds to bring essential resources tailored specifically for autistic and neurodivergent children to our A&E at Prince Charles Hospital. With these funds, we plan to provide sensory-friendly toys, comfort kits, and create quiet, calming spaces where children like Ellis can feel more at ease during an already stressful time.

With your help, we can create an inclusive, compassionate space that will bring comfort to families who, like us, know the challenges of supporting a neurodivergent child in A&E. Every donation, no matter the amount, will make a meaningful difference for children and families in need of this support.

Please consider contributing whatever you can. Together, we can build a better environment for children who need it most.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Your kindness will bring relief and comfort to countless families during some of their most vulnerable moments.

Robert & Gemma Cummings