Francis House Christmas appeal launches with Dukinfield family’s moving story

Francis House Children’s Hospice has launched its 2024 Christmas Appeal – Love and Life – shining a spotlight on the vital support it offers to families of seriously ill children across Greater Manchester.

At the heart of this year’s campaign is the story of 11-year-old Florence from Dukinfield, whose remarkable journey is told through a new film narrated by her mum, Jen East.

The film premiered at the charity’s annual Christmas Ball at Mottram Hall, where supporters helped raise an impressive £25,000 in one night. The appeal aims to boost funding for the hospice’s extensive services, which provide respite care, sibling support, homecare, day care and emotional support to the whole family, not just the child living with a life-limiting condition.

Francis House has been a lifeline for local families for 34 years, supporting more than 1,500 families in that time. The hospice is known for its warm, home-from-home atmosphere where children and families can experience joy, comfort and precious moments together.

For Jen, the support has been transformative. Florence was referred to the hospice in 2017 at just two years old, shortly after being diagnosed with Late Infantile GM1 Gangliosidosis, a regressive life-limiting condition. Florence can no longer walk, talk or sit up unaided and requires round-the-clock care. Her brother, 14-year-old Riccardo, also regularly visits the hospice with the family.

“Florence is a real character,” Jen said. “She’s got a cheeky smile and a great sense of humour, and she absolutely loves socialising and taking part in all of the activities at Francis House. When Florence was diagnosed, our whole world was turned upside down. We were told she wouldn’t live past the age of ten and to go home and make memories.

“Someone told me about Francis House, and they invited the three of us for lunch. It immediately felt like a home from home, calm and full of love.

“Most people think of hospices for end of life, but it’s like a second home for us. They’re 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 with a life-limiting condition.”

Whole family support at Francis House.

Jen describes how important that sibling support has been: “Riccardo absolutely loves it at Francis House. It can be hard for him as a brother because Florence needs so much attention. But they take as good care of Riccardo as they do Florence. They take him to the cinema and he’s mixing with other siblings, so they get to talk, share and support each other.”

For Florence, the hospice is a place filled with joy.

“She loves the play specialists,” Jen said. “When she comes home after a few days, you can see in her face how much fun she’s had.”

With the hospice costing £5.8 million a year to run and demand continuing to rise, it now supports more than 435 families, Francis House is relying on the generosity of the public this Christmas.

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. Any support you can give this Christmas is greatly appreciated.”

To watch Jen, Flo and Riccardo’s story and donate to the Love and Life Christmas Appeal, visit the Francis House website: www.francishouse.org.uk/jen-flo-and-riccardo-story/

The full video is available on YouTube: