Cheers!
Irish eyes were smiling as families supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) came together for a belated, one-of-a-kind St Patrick’s Day celebration at The Treehouse.
The charity’s Ipswich hospice was transformed into an Irish pub – The Treehouse Arms – for a lively evening of music, dancing, food and culture, including a live video link with a group in Ballyconnell, West County Cavan.
Talented musicians performed free of charge, belting out toe-tapping tunes including Ed Sheeran’s Galway Girl.
Families were also treated to some dazzling footwork thanks to a special performance from Ipswich’s Jessica Ann School of Dancing.
From custom-made beer mats to a handcrafted pub sign, no detail was overlooked, and staff, volunteers, parents and carers were able to celebrate by raising an ice-cold glass of Guinness 0.0%.
The evening – one of The Treehouse’s regular band practice sessions – was the brainchild of EACH Music Therapist Ray Travasso, who organised the evening with Play Specialist Hailey Allen.
“During these events, families are able to meet others, make connections and create special memories together,” said Ray.
“That’s what our work is all about, and life is experienced in its fullness and joy.
“The success of the event was based on incredible teamwork and creativity from all our wonderful staff, volunteers, visitors and families.”
Eight families attended, including mum Alison Coates, who brought son Alexander. The six-year-old has cerebral palsy, dystonia and epilepsy.
“Alex and I had such a lovely time,” said Alison.
“The music and dancing were both amazing and I don’t think calling the session ‘band practice’ does it justice. It was more of a musical extravaganza!”
Twelve-year-old Gracie Baldry, who has Global Development Delay, cerebral palsy and epilepsy, joined in the fun with dad James.
James said: “Everything had been thought through so carefully, with such attention to detail.
“Gracie had an amazing time, and it was lovely for us both to relax, have a laugh and enjoy something a bit different together. We really appreciated the effort that went into making it so memorable.”
EACH Chief Executive Kevin Clements joined the band – donning a green satin jacket and playing the guitar.
He said: “It was an absolute pleasure to be part of this very special, entertaining and uplifting evening.
“This is what the very best hospice care looks like – making the most out of life, whatever the circumstances. ‘Making it happen’, as we like to say at EACH.
“It was a remarkable team effort and an example of our organisation at its absolute finest.
“It was a privilege to take part but also to stand back and witness the impact it had on the families who were present. You could see the joy on their faces.”
EACH’s monthly band practice evenings are engaging, interactive after-school music therapy sessions designed for service users and their families.
They feature sensory-adapted songs and content, and each session revolves around a unique theme, carefully tailored to cater to the needs of children and young people.
Pictures: Leo Martin (@parallaxwolf)/EACH
