A spirited two-year-old receiving care from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) stole the show and melted hearts when officially opening the charity’s new shop in Stowmarket today.
Logan Ditcham, who has Down syndrome, as well as heart and kidney disease, was asked to cut the ribbon at the new store in Market Place.
He was joined by mum Vicki as the pair receive care and support from EACH at The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
“We were truly honoured and grateful to be asked,” said Vicki.
“It’s nice having something on our doorstep and gives us an opportunity to support the charity that does so much to support us.
“I always pop into other EACH shops and think they’re great, so can’t wait to start using the new one here in Stowmarket.”
Logan and Vicki have been receiving care and support for just over a year, having initially started attending EACH’s TreeTots group. The special sessions are for babies and youngsters up to the age of five.
They moved on to an overnight stay together, and Logan now enjoys daycare and short breaks on his own. He particularly loves music therapy and band practice sessions, arts and crafts, playing with cars and being pushed on The Treehouse swing. He also hopes to start having hydrotherapy soon.
“Even before our referral, I used to speak to another mum whose daughter has a heart condition and receives care at The Treehouse,” said Vicki, who lives in Stowmarket and is also mum to four-year-old Alfie.
“So, I’ve always known what an amazing charity it is, and that’s proven the case in the year we’ve been going.
“Everyone has been so fantastic and helpful, right from the beginning.
“It’s been a huge help, and the care team have become a second family.
“Just knowing I can pick up the phone to them makes such a difference, and I honestly don’t know where I’d be without that support.
“It’s been our saving grace, and I can’t say enough to express what a phenomenal place The Treehouse is.”
Vicki describes Logan as a ‘loveable, cheeky little boy with the most gorgeous smile that lights up any room’.
“He melts hearts everywhere he goes, and I can’t take him anywhere without people wanting to stop and talk,” said the 33-year-old, who was speaking during Children’s Hospice Week – a week dedicated to raising awareness and funds for children’s hospice and palliative care services across the UK. It started on Monday and runs until Sunday.
“They’re always saying how cute and lovely he is.
“Logan completes my world and can turn the dullest day into a bright, happy one.
“He’s a ray of sunshine and my little miracle. Whatever life throws at him, he picks himself up and keeps smiling.
“He never complains and is an example to everyone. He doesn’t let anything stop him and brightens up everyone’s day.
“I love him so much and can’t imagine life without him.”
Vicki believes people have misconceptions when it comes to Down syndrome.
His condition was discovered during her pregnancy, but she says her son, who has had heart surgery three times, has defied all expectations.
“I’ve always been told of the barriers he’ll face – the things he won’t be able to do or achieve,” she said.
“However, he continues to amaze everyone, and the doctors and paediatricians are always impressed with the progress he’s making.
“My advice to parents in a similar situation would be don’t be frightened by anything you’re told during a scan.
“Logan has exceeded all expectations and is my little warrior. He never stops fighting and words can’t describe how proud I am.”
EACH’s previous Stowmarket shop closed in 2021. After a long search to find the right location to return, the charity’s new store is the former HSBC building.
It becomes EACH’s 53rd outlet across the region, including its Retail Distribution, in Thetford. It will be open from Monday to Saturday.
The charity would love to hear from new volunteers interested in helping there. To find out more, pop in for chat, email manager Mandi Higgins via [email protected] or call 01449 774586.
