Family Shares Impact of BBC Children in Need Support Amidst Daughter’s Rare Disorder

The relatives of a four-year-old girl, who was born with a rare, life-limiting medical condition, have shared how their lives have been transformed through the support of BBC Children in Need. Olivia, a resident of Lincolnshire, lives with SIFD (Sideroblastic anaemia) and receives assistance from St Andrew’s Hospice in Grimsby, which provides a dedicated family support worker. Sally, Olivia’s mother, stated that the service offered crucial help in managing their emotions during her daughter’s major operation, as well as in their daily routines. Olivia is among approximately 8,000 children across the regions of East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire who have benefited from initiatives funded by BBC Children in Need. Olivia’s birth occurred prematurely at 28 weeks, leading to her spending the initial 11 months of her life hospitalized. In 2023, she received a diagnosis of suspected SIFD and subsequently underwent a stem-cell transplant. Sally recounted the family’s uncertainty regarding Olivia’s survival through the procedure, stating they “didn’t know” if she would make it, and consequently “planned a funeral” and “had their last goodbyes with family and friends”. She further commented: “In true Olivia-style, she smashed it and we’re here now”. Olivia holds the distinction of being only the fourth child to survive this specific medical procedure. Sally expressed that Olivia brings immense “love and happiness”, despite “everything she’s been through”. Olivia enjoys Peppa Pig, her preferred color is pink, and she recently began attending school three afternoons per week. For the past year, Sally and Olivia’s family have received assistance from a family support worker whose position is funded by BBC Children in Need. Lucy Williamson, who heads children’s services at St Andrew’s Hospice in Grimsby, emphasized that the role is “much needed” because its primary focus is on supporting the emotional well-being, mental health, and overall welfare of families caring for children like Olivia. She additionally noted: “There are, at the moment, hospices that are having to withdraw some services.” Williamson cautioned: “We’re not at that stage yet, but if we don’t have that vital funding, that is the possibility within the future.” The annual cost to deliver the services provided at St Andrew’s is nearly £6m, with 18% of this funding coming from the government. The remaining amount, approximately £5m, is generated through fundraising efforts and grants. This year’s BBC Children in Need campaign is scheduled for Friday 15 November. Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.