We have started this appeal on behalf of our good friends, the Jones family, to support their beautiful daughter, Phoebe.

Phoebe is now 15 years old and has spent the last four years in and out of hospital after becoming seriously ill in the autumn of 2022. Despite the care and involvement of several specialists, and various diagnoses (long covid/ME, rumination syndrome, FND and dysmotility of her GI tract), Phoebe continues to be very poorly.

The impact on the whole family has been devastating. Her two younger brothers have seen their daily routines and family life change beyond recognition as everyone works to support Phoebe through this incredibly difficult time.

Sadly, last month the family received further heartbreaking news when Phoebe’s mum, Emma, was diagnosed with breast cancer. While we are all hopeful that Emma’s cancer can be successfully treated, it is an additional challenge that no family should have to face, especially while caring for a seriously ill child.

Everyone who knows the Jones family wants to help in any way we can. While we cannot change Phoebe and Emma’s health circumstances, we hope that together we can help ease some of the pressure they are facing.

Phoebe currently needs a new electric wheelchair so that she can move around more independently, particularly on the days when she is extremely fatigued. The family also need to install a stairlift so that Phoebe can access her bedroom whenever she is well enough to be at home. These essential items would make a huge difference to Phoebe’s comfort, independence, and quality of life, but they are simply out of reach for the family at the moment, particularly as Emma had been unable to work while Phoebe has been poorly and now that she must also focus upon her own treatment.

Any donation, no matter how small, would be hugely appreciated and will go directly towards helping Phoebe and supporting the family through this incredibly difficult time. Our initial goal is to raise £11,000 to cover the cost of the wheelchair and stairlift. If we are fortunate enough to exceed this target, any additional funds will be used to further support Phoebe’s care, Emma’s recovery, and the wellbeing of the whole family.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read Phoebe’s story and for any support you are able to give.