Hello, my name is Tom and my beautiful niece, Viola is just two years old and lives with Dravet syndrome, a rare, treatment resistant form of epilepsy that comes with prolonged seizures and developmental delays. This condition causes frequent, unpredictable seizures that can be life threatening and often require emergency care with extended hospital stays.

The seizures are extremely distressing for everyone involved and when she is hospitalised her entire family’s world comes to a halt.

One parent must remain at her bedside, while the other works to hold everything together at home for their other children, juggling school, routines, and emotional needs—all while coping with the constant worry of a critically ill child. During these times, work is impossible, leading to lost income on top of mounting stress.

The family is also trying to relocate to Bristol so they can be closer to the hospital that provides the specialised paediatric and intensive care facilities Viola needs. Being nearer to this hospital would mean faster access to expert care during emergencies and better ongoing support for her complex condition, but the move itself brings significant additional financial pressure at an already difficult time.

This fundraiser is to help ease that burden. Donations will help cover everyday expenses during hospital stays—including lost wages, travel, meals, and basic needs for the whole family—so they can focus on caring for all three of their children, especially little Viola, who will need support and care throughout her life.

Any support, whether through donating or sharing this page, means more than we can express. Thank you for surrounding this family with love and compassion and thank you for taking the time to read about Viola's story. We appreciate you all. x