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Mum Clare Brook says she enjoys speaking to other parents at family days organised by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Nine-year-old son Dylan has Mucopolysaccaridosis type III – a rare genetic condition that causes fatal brain damage. He was diagnosed when he was two.
Clare is married to Darryl and has two other sons – Callum, 14, and Elliot, six. The Brooks recently attended EACH’s family beach day at Felixstowe.
“We started going to family events like that as soon as we possibly could and always find them useful and enjoyable,” said Clare, who lives in Ipswich. Something like the beach hut day is absolutely great.
“It’s helpful talking to other parents in the same boat and hearing about their experiences.
“We help and support each other, as well as asking and answering each other’s questions. I always learn a lot on days like this.
“It’s also great for the kids and siblings. They forge friendships and enjoy spending time together. It gives them a sense of freedom.”
EACH hosts the beach day every summer and hires The Hut, which has its own kitchen, toilet and facilities and is especially for charity and community groups.
Staff brought a hoist and hired a beach wheelchair, so children receiving care were able to dip their feet in the water and feel the sand between their toes.
