Heal a Family Shattered by Fire: Critical Burns & Trauma

My name is Kelvin Avon, and I am starting this fundraiser with a heavy heart for my beloved sister, Kate Oxton, her husband Andrew Oxton, and their kids Mia, James, and Holly.

On August 24th, their lives were tragically and irrevocably changed by a sudden and devastating freak fire accident at a friend’s home. Where they both suffered severe, life altering injuries.

Andrew was critically injured, sustaining burns over 30% of his body. He is currently in the ICU/Burn Unit at East Grinstead Hospital, fighting for his life. The doctors have told us he has an incredibly long, painful, and uncertain road to recovery ahead. He will require multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and extensive rehabilitation. As a result of his injuries, he will be unable to work for a very long time, if ever again.

My sister, Kate, also suffered serious burns and injuries to her legs, leaving her unable to walk. She faces her own arduous journey of recovery and physical therapy, all while her heart is breaking for her husband and her family.

The ripple effects of this trauma have deeply impacted their entire family, who are all trying to be strong while their world falls apart.

· Their 19-year-old son, James, acted with incredible bravery. His father was engulfed in flames, and James's quick thinking to put out the fire saved his dad's life. However, the trauma of that night has left him with severe PTSD. He is carrying a heavy emotional burden, yet he is still determined to begin his university studies in Liverpool as planned.

· Their daughter, Holly, while not present during the accident, is now trying to come to terms with this nightmare from afar. She is grappling with the shock of her parents' injuries and the terrifying uncertainty of her father's recovery, all while trying to focus on her final year of A-Levels.

· Amidst this tragedy, a moment of immense joy is also touched with profound sadness. Their eldest daughter, Mia, is nine months pregnant with their second grandchild. The baby will be born while Andrew is fighting for his life in the hospital and Kate is immobilised by her injuries. What should be a purely joyous family celebration is now overshadowed by heartbreak, and the painful worry about her family at a time when she also needs them most.

So in an instant, their world was shattered. Their focus has rightly shifted entirely to survival and healing. The emotional trauma is unimaginable, and the physical pain is a constant battle.

Why We Need Your Help

The path ahead is not just medically complex; it is financially daunting for every member of the family. The funds raised through this campaign will be used to provide a financial lifeline so they can focus 100% on recovery without the crushing weight of financial stress. Specifically, donations will help with:

· Medical Expenses: Despite NHS and insurance, the out-of-pocket costs for critical care, surgeries, medications, and long-term rehabilitation will be enormous.

· Living Costs: Covering mortgage/rent, utilities, and groceries while they have a severely reduced income.

· Accessibility & Home Modifications: Making their home accessible for Andrew's mobility challenges upon his return home.

· Counselling and Mental Health Support: Covering the essential cost of therapy for James, Holly, and the entire family as they process this profound trauma.

· General Support: Allowing them the grace to navigate this painful time, ensuring James and Holly can continue their studies without the added pressure of financial ruin.

How You Can Help

We are humbly asking for your support. Any donation, no matter the size, will make a real difference in their ability to fight through this. If you are unable to donate at this time, we completely understand, but you can still help immensely by:

· Sharing this page far and wide on social media and through email.

· Keeping Kate, Andrew, Mia, James, and Holly in your thoughts and prayers.

· Respecting their privacy as they navigate this critical time. We will provide updates here as we are able.

We cannot thank you enough for your love, compassion, and generosity. In their darkest hour, your support will be a beacon of hope, showing this entire family they are not alone in this fight.

I will be updating this page with updates to keep you all informed about their progress.

With deepest gratitude,

Kelvin Avon and the The Oxton Family