Croydon Health Charity has launched our “Little Breaths” appeal to fund two ventilators that can be rapidly transported to help children unable to breathe on their own. These ventilators will help to get oxygen and air into a critically ill child's lungs as part of their care or onward treatment at a specialist hospital.
Kelly Mole’s son Mason was left fighting for his life aged just 18 months after a virus attacked his body. Mason received life-saving ventilation at Croydon University Hospital before being transferred to another London NHS trust.
“I lived every patient’s worst nightmare when Mason fell desperately ill. I am thankful to the compassionate clinical team at Croydon University Hospital who looked after him so well.
Mason had no underlying health conditions and was playing in the garden just a few hours before being admitted to A&E. The ventilator helped to save his life as it took over when his weak body could no longer function. Thankfully, Mason is now a fit and healthy five-year-old boy who loves football and other sports.
Kelly Mole, Mum to Mason and Amelia
"Ventilators are essential machines which take over breathing when a child is too unwell to breathe for themselves. They are a lifeline when our patients need us the most and, like with Mason, can prevent every parent’s worst nightmare when their child is critically unwell. We are grateful for any support to help us achieve our fundraising target.”
Hazel Daish, a consultant in paediatric medicine for three years at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, who cares for children like Mason
Thanks to Little Breaths supporters, the first ventilator has been purchased for our Emergency Department but we still need your help to buy the second ventilator for our Rainbow Children's Unit.
Please support Little Breaths in any way that you can - get your school, company or club involved - host an event in the community or at home. We'd love to hear from you so please get in touch via laura.kennedy8@nhs.net.
Should the appeal exceed the fundraising target the charity will use any additional funds raised to support the vital work of the Paediatrics team at Croydon University Hospital.
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