Sidbury family to benefit from Rainbow Run

What does sitting down with a cup of tea mean to you?

For Mum of three, Bev Roberts, from Sidbury, it’s the highlight of her respite stay at Children’s Hospice South West – care that is funded through its Exeter Rainbow Run.

Amelia Roberts, aged 10, has Batten’s Disease. It’s extremely rare and is life-limiting. Already, Amelia has affected sight and mobility and requires round the clock care and, as a result, Children’s Hospice South West’s Little Bridge House has become a haven for the family.

Bev says: ‘We come to stay at Little Bridge House every eight weeks or so and it is a much needed break for all the family. Although Amelia has had the disease from birth, the effects of the condition really began to show when she was around four year’s old. Because she needs 24hour care, her brother and sister have had to grow up extremely quickly.

‘Staying at Little Bridge House is like a weight has been lifted of our shoulders. I can finally drink a hot cup of tea in peace (I’ve lost count of the number of half-drunk teas I have made in the past!) knowing that Amelia is in great hands. What’s more, her brother and sister can become children again. The hospice provides a full sibling support service, so Dylan and Alishia can also relax. For once they don’t have to be my support, they too can just enjoy themselves without feeling guilty.’

Children’s Hospice South West relies almost entirely on voluntary donations and events such as its Exeter Rainbow Run bring in vital funds. By attending the run at Exeter Racecourse on Saturday June 13, you will be helping local children like Amelia. Bev, describes Little Bridge House as: ‘An amazing and happy place’.

If you would like to help CHSW make the most of short and precious lives, please sign up today at www.chsw.org.uk/rainbowexeter