Mark was born with complex congenital heart disease, something we learned as early as my three-month ultrasound. I was offered a medical termination, but I chose to continue with my pregnancy. I called my baby a blessing, and I carried him with hope.

Mark was born perfectly fine, but when he turned two, his heart began to fail. He needed a series of open-heart surgeries. His first major operation, at age two. After the operation, he developed fluid around his heart and underwent Pericardiocentesis.

At age four, he had another open-heart surgery to replace a leaking valve with a metallic valve.

Then at age five, he faced a major operation intended to complete the repair of his heart – known as Fontan Circulation. Unfortunately, this surgery was unsuccessful.

Despite everything he endured. Mark remained mentally and unfailingly positive. His consultant did everything possible to support him, but the risks of further surgery were too great. They decided not to proceed with the final operation, which meant his oxygen levels would remain low throughout his life.

Even with these challenges, Mark continued to shine. Through his faith, he led prayers on special occasions, gave inspirational talks, supported doctors during simulation training, and offered meaningful insight into our daily life. He became a light to everyone around him.

In March 2025, his condition began to decline. His consultant decided to place him under palliative care. It was a devastating news for us and our family, unimaginable weight for my husband and me. We both chose to stop working so we could spend happy, meaningful, and quality time with him.

Just when we were at the deepest and lowest part of our lives, Suzi, the CEO of Taylor-Made Dreams, rang on 16th May 2025. She told us that Mark was referred by the community nurse, and she wished to visit him.

On 30th May 2025, Suzi came and brought Mark a soft sheepskin and gently asked him about his wishes. I saw instantly, a radiant smile on his face, a smile I hadn’t seen for the longest time. My husband and I listened as Mark shared his dreams; his voice full of excitement. His top wishes were to eat at a five-star hotel restaurant with the whole family and taste caviar, to stay at the Legoland Hotel, to have a mobility scooter, a laptop and the list went on.

On 6th June 2025, parcels from TMD began arriving: Legos, Hot wheels cars, night clothes, a suit and other thoughtful gifts. Every morning, Mark woke up eager to see what might arrive next. Every gift he received lifted his spirit. When the mobility scooter arrived, Mark felt a deep sense of autonomy. We watched him drive with pure gladness.

But of all his wishes, the Savoy Grill experience was the one that excited him most. It gave us a chance to create good, happy, and lasting memories as family. It was a life- changing experience for him, and for us.

A few days before his passing, he’s meant to film a short message to express his gratitude to TMD. He often spoke about how wonderful and generous they were, and he hoped many people would support the organisation, as they bring hope and happiness to life-limiting children like him.

As parents, we are deeply grateful for how Taylor-Made Dreams created such a wonderful experience for us, and especially for Mark. We would never have been able to create these long and lasting memories without their support. It wasn’t only the financial and material gifts, it was the kindness, compassion, and empathy of Suzi and every member of the TMD.

Lastly, the engraved fingerprint necklace I wear wherever I go reminds me of the beautiful legacy of my son, handcrafted by the Taylor-Made Dreams, a gift of love that will live in our hearts forever.