A mum whose son receives life-changing care and support from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) has shared his story to help promote a groundbreaking new TV campaign.
Kevin Ornat has muscular dystrophy and benefits from fun-packed sessions organised by the physical therapies team at The Nook, near Norwich.
The ten-year-old, who was diagnosed when he was five, also enjoys hydrotherapy and spending time with the care team, while seven-year-old brother Nathan loves attending sibling days, organised for the brothers and sisters of children receiving care from EACH.
Kevin’s story is being released today, to coincide with the launch of a new ‘This is Hospice Care’ campaign – a collaboration between 143 adult and children’s hospices across England, Scotland and Wales, brought together by Hospice UK.
A powerful advert designed to change perceptions and inspire long-term support is running on national television, encouraging people to consider leaving a gift in their Will to organisations like EACH.
Speaking out in support, Kinga said: “I didn’t know what to expect when we first went to the hospice. It was a completely new experience, so we had an open mind.
“However, I remember being amazed right from the start and still feel that way every time we come away.
“As a family, it provides us with an environment we wouldn’t be able to find in any other walk of life.
“It’s magical, and both Kevin and Nathan love spending time at The Nook.
“For Kevin, the hospice is a place he can meet other young people in a similar situation, where they can share their worries and struggles, and he’s made some strong connections.”
Kinga, who is married to Tomasz and lives near Swaffham, says life would be unimaginable without EACH.
“It’s an amazing feeling and helps us feel less isolated, especially as our families are back home in Poland and Germany,” she said.
“It’s something we value and are grateful for.
“I honestly couldn’t imagine life without EACH. Everything would be so different, and it’s not something we take for granted.”
Gifts in Wills are crucial to the survival and growth of organisations like EACH, which, in addition to The Nook, also has The Treehouse, in Ipswich, and Milton, near Cambridge.
“We’re proud and delighted to be joining forces with other hospices, to help protect the future of hospice care,” said Jessica Sayer, EACH’s Head of Supporter Engagement.
“It’s an exciting opportunity to be part of a national campaign, helping raise the profile of hospices like ours and the incredible work that goes on within them.
“One in six of the children we support is thanks to generous supporters leaving a gift in their Will.
“It’s a crucial part of our income and why we’re asking our incredible supporters and community to consider doing likewise – to ensure we can continue supporting the rising number of families in need, for now and many years to come.”
To read more how you can help, head to each.org.uk/giw
