Sebastian Gates was only 9 when he died from cancer, but his legacy will last much longer, as his parents have worked incredibly hard to fulfil his final wish – a holiday home for seriously ill children and their families.
The Bluebells was set up by Sebastian’s Action Trust and provides week long breaks, day visits and crisis breaks for the families of seriously ill children. It’s a place where families can spend precious time together and find courage to face the journey ahead.
There are currently nearly 50,000 children and young people in England with life-limiting conditions. Last year, 106 families stayed at The Bluebells.
Young Dylan Richards was diagnosed with encephalitis, brain injury, epilepsy, severe learning difficulties, global development delay, swallow dysfunction and a sensory processing disorder. After spending a weekend at The Bluebells, his mum Alice said:
“Being able to talk to someone outside of the family unit is always very helpful. I could get a few things off my chest. It was great to regroup as a family with Dylan’s Aunt and Uncle. We loved our weekend at Bluebells and didn’t want to leave!”
Global’s Make Some Noise is proud to support further bespoke support to families accessing The Bluebells, including massage sessions, one on one emotional support and bereavement counselling.