Butterfly Appeal

Four year old Cora and her family were recently supported by Northern Ireland Children's Hospice.  Their story highlights just how important your donations to Children’s Hospice are and how they help us to care for life limited children across Northern Ireland. Thank you.

Cora’s Dad Ciaran explains how Children’s Hospice makes a difference to their lives.

“Cora has very specific care needs and we’ve been getting help from Children’s Hospice for 3 years. Cora has Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy and Global Developmental Delay. She also needs oxygen at night and is blind.

We first came to Hospice just after Cora’s first birthday, but more recently Children’s Hospice became a lifeline for me and her Mum, Amy. Just before Christmas, Cora’s condition deteriorated rapidly and we nearly lost her. She was rushed to hospital before being transferred to the Children’s Hospice where she stayed for several weeks of respite care.

That time was really tough. Amy was also very ill and in hospital at the same time. If it hadn’t been for the support of Children’s Hospice I would have struggled to manage all of Cora’s care needs on my own. There are no dramas at Children’s Hospice – everyone knows why you are there and accepts it. The place has a really positive atmosphere and it’s a great chance to chat with other parents who are in a similar situation. Just knowing you have someone to turn to for care, help and advice makes all the difference.”

Cora’s condition has thankfully stabilised. During their last visit Ciaran and Cora took part in art activities and made a beautiful butterfly print (pictured above) with her hands and feet. Creating memories like this, for families, is something we value very much at Children’s Hospice. Caring for a life limited child often means that things everyone else takes for granted, such as painting a picture with your son or daughter can be impossible.  

Please support our Butterfly Appeal and help us to care for other children like Cora by donating whatever you can afford today. Please also leave a message of support for the children and families who need our care.