The Children

Chloe Wood is 12 years old

She has cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus, (water on the brain), scoliosis (curvature of the spine), impaired vision and she is unable to talk.

During late pregnancy, it was evident that Chloe was severely disabled, and her parents were warned that she may not survive the birth. When she did, it was suggested that she may not be able to fight her first infection, but fight it she did!

Chloe has been in and out of hospital throughout her life, fighting off infections, but still retains a love for life.

Chloe loves music and men!

When she hears a man talking her eye lashes flutter and she can flirt like any other young lady!

She loves bath time, being tickled, and generally responds to all attention given to her, despite her severe disabilities. Her Mum says she is the best friend anyone could have, giving unconditional love.

The hospice will provide the facilities to stimulate Chloe, providing one to one care and attention, and allowing her parents a little time to re-charge their batteries once in a while.

Jack Waller is just 5 years old

He has a rare heart and lung condition called Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.

This means he could have a heart attack at any time — he needs to have drugs pumped directly into his heart every three minutes, 24 hours a day — 365 days a year. He needs constant monitoring to ensure his pump does not fail.

He carries his life saving drugs and pump in a little back pack that he wears constantly. If his pump fails his parents have literally three minutes to replace it and ensure he receives his next dosage on time.

Jack is the voice behind the BBC Radio Sheffield Appeal and has melted the hearts of the region when he says “Give your pennies to Bluebell Wood”

He is an extremely bright little boy who needs constant stimulation and the pressures and demands on his family (with the added delights of his younger twin brothers!) means that respite care gives them a well earned break and a chance for them to recharge their batteries.

Jack Hyland is 8 years old

He has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, impaired vision and is a quadriplegic.

He was diagnosed at 6 months old — he needs 24 hour, 7 day a week care.

Jack is very sensitive to sounds — he hates the noise in shopping centres, supermarkets, and busy places. He loves softer noises and particularly likes country and western music — his favourite being Shania Twain.

He likes being taken for a walk in the woods, the seaside but loves steam trains, and is happiest when being taken on the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Train.

Jack has 2 younger sisters and a brother, Beverley, his mum, says, “ Life for all the family revolves around Jack and his needs. Bluebell Wood would give them the opportunity of some 'normal' family activities like taking them to the cinema or to the swimming baths - knowing Jack was receiving the love and care he needs at the same time.”