A teenager living with a rare muscle condition enjoyed the prom night of her dreams after being treated like a princess by staff at East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Bethany Smith was pampered by the care team at The Nook before leaving with staff from Hethersett Academy and heading for her big night at Sprowston Manor. The 16-year-old picked her own hair style and make-up from pictures online, before slipping into her prom dress and being wheeled through a balloon arch. She was then given a mini guard of honour by staff before leaving by minibus.
The celebrations continued when Bethany arrived at Sprowston Manor, where family and friends gathered to cheer and clap as she made her entrance.
Bethany, who has Mitochondrial Myopathy – a rare condition that affects her muscles and energy levels and means she uses a wheelchair – then spent the evening dancing to some of her favourite music, including songs by Harry Styles and One Direction.
Dad Steve said it was an unforgettable day for the whole family. “It was very emotional, and I welled up as soon as I saw her in her dress,” he said. “There was a lot of love, and everyone was in tears. She looked so grown up and absolutely stunning, and we both felt proud and overwhelmed.
“As a family, we’ve been on such a journey together, and she’ll always be our little girl, even though she’s now 16. It only seems like yesterday she was a baby, and throughout her whole life we’ve always been told about the things she can’t and won’t do. She’s been through so much but has always shown the strength and determination to prove her doubters wrong. She’s our princess, and it’s amazing how far she’s come.”
Steve, who is married to Caroline, said the attention shown by the care team made the occasion even more special. Other highlights included a stunning hand-decorated One Direction cake, specially made to mark the occasion.
“Bethany absolutely loved her day, and it’s hard to find the words to express our gratitude to the team at The Nook,” he said. “Everyone went out of their way to make the day as special and magical as possible, making her look and feel a million dollars. It was perfect, and we’ve all been riding on the crest of a wave ever since. She felt like a princess – like Cinderella going to the ball. She was like a film star on the red carpet, and it was an amazing experience for us all, giving us memories that will stay with us forever.
“EACH has been part of our lives for 14 years, since the Quidenham days, when the charity was based at its former Norfolk hospice. In that time, we’ve built up such a strong connection with members of the team – some of whom we’ve known since day one. We can’t thank them enough for everything they’ve done for us over the years. They’re a very special group of people.”
Bethany and her family, from Cringleford, have been supported by EACH since 2012, shortly after concerns first emerged about her health as a baby. She was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Myopathy in 2018.
Now, as she approaches adulthood, Steve admits the family are finding it difficult to think about eventually leaving the hospice that has become such an important part of their lives. Bethany is due to transition into adult care when she turns 18.
“We’re absolutely dreading it, and I don’t know where we’d be without the care and support we’ve received from EACH,” he said. “When I say that, I mean for our whole family – not just Bethany. Caroline and I have benefitted, as has her sister, Bonnie.
“Life would have been so very different, and I can’t put into words how much it’s meant to us over the years. The thought of that support suddenly not being there anymore – like a switch going off – is strange and terrifying. The EACH team have become like a second family to us, and it’ll undoubtedly be a very sad and emotional day when we leave for the last time. We’re certainly not looking forward to saying goodbye.
“When it comes to care, there’s undoubtedly a gap for young people aged 18 to 25. I don’t know what we’re going to do because we’ve been spoilt by everyone at The Nook. It feels like a second home, and we wish we could stay forever.”
Nurse Charlotte Pipe was one of the staff members to help Bethany and she said it was an ‘honour and a privilege to be part of such a special day’.
“I’ve known Bethany throughout her entire EACH journey, so it was fitting I was part of the team to bring her visions to life,” she added. “Bethany is an inspiring young lady, and being able to fulfil her make-up and hair style of choice was an absolute pleasure.”
Pictures: Karen Self/EACH
