Francis House Children’s Hospice has launched its Christmas Appeal – Love and Life – highlighting the vital support it provides to families of seriously ill children.
At the heart of the campaign is Jen East from Dukinfield, Tameside, whose 11-year-old daughter Florence lives with a life-limiting condition. Florence was not expected to live beyond ten, but the family has been supported by Francis House since she was referred in 2017, at the age of two. Jen’s 14-year-old son Riccardo has also benefited from the hospice’s family-focused services.
The hospice delivers a wide range of support, including respite care, sibling sessions, homecare, day care, and emotional support, ensuring families are cared for as a whole, not just the child. Over 34 years, Francis House has assisted more than 1,500 families across Greater Manchester, providing a warm and welcoming environment where children and their families can enjoy happy and meaningful moments.
Florence has Late Infantile GM1 Gangliosidosis, a regressive condition that has left her unable to walk, talk, or sit unaided, requiring round-the-clock care. Jen describes her daughter as “a real character” with “a cheeky smile and a great sense of humour” who loves participating in activities at the hospice.
“When Florence was diagnosed, our whole world was turned upside down and we were told she wouldn’t live past the age of ten and told to go home and make memories. Someone told me about Francis House and they invited the three of us to come for lunch – it immediately felt like it was a home from home. It was calm and full of love,” Jen said.
Jen highlights that the hospice supports the entire family. “Most people think of hospices for end of life but it’s like a second home for us. Francis House are there for Florence of course, but also for me as a mum and a person, caring for my daughter. They’re there for Riccardo too, a teenager and a brother who has to deal with everything that comes with having a sister who has a life-limiting condition. Riccardo absolutely loves it at Francis House. They take him to the cinema and he’s mixing with other siblings, so they get to talk, share and support each other.”
Florence enjoys the play specialists and activities at the hospice, with her joy visible to the family when she returns home. Jen adds: “Being a parent of a child with a life-limiting condition means the support from people who know what we’re going through is really important. It’s a place that we can all go to for a break and a change of scene – it’s a special place which we couldn’t live without.”
Francis House operates at an annual cost of £5.8 million, supporting over 435 families with respite care, end-of-life care, and other essential services.
Rachael Taylor, chief executive of Francis House, said: “Jen and Flo’s story is just one example of the many families who use our services all year round. Francis House offers much more than just respite care; it’s a place where memories are made, friendships are formed, and most importantly, lives are lived to the fullest. As demand for our services continues to rise, we need the support of the local community to keep these vital services running. Any support you can give this Christmas is greatly appreciated.”
