As many of you know GOSH has a big place in my heart and has helped me in lots of ways over the years. From being a patient to being a governor of the hospital; I've been able to see what a positive impact the hosptial has had on so many people in a similar position to me. The hospital supported my family as well, teaching them how to manage my conditions. Mum came to all my appointments with me and stayed with me on the wards.

I was a patient at GOSH from 13 to 18 years old, experiencing both outpatient and inpatient care in a variety of different departments. GOSH helped me to come to terms with my health and helped me to manage my condition so I could carry on living a normal life. The staff never gave up on me and kept finding out what could be done to help me despite being called a medical mystery . They looked at me as a whole person- not just my condition.

I was a member of the Young Peoples Forum, this is a group of young people who are passionate about improving their hosptial. I then went on to become a govenor at GOSH. I represent patient views and have been involved in lots of different things. This role has helped me to see behind the scenes of the work that is being done in the hospital and help to get young peoples voices heard. Being a govenor has provided me with so much personal development giving me opportunities that many people will never get the chance to do! 

I am forever grateful for the care that the hosptial gave me and the continued support that they give me. Therefore Mum and I hope to raise awareness of the hard work that the hosptial and all their staff / volunteers do. Money raised for GOSH goes towards a variety of projects such as building development, patient care and experience, and research. 

I want to show everyone (and myself) that I’m not going to let my health stop me from doing anything that I want to! Thanks for your support x