I’m taking on a skydive to raise money for Bristol Children’s Hospital (The Grand Appeal) – and every donation will make a real difference.

Our son Gabriel was born with a rare condition called Hirschsprung’s disease, and within 24 hours of his birth, he was rushed to Bristol Children’s Hospital for urgent care. At just 8 weeks old, he underwent major bowel surgery – a pull-through procedure – to remove part of his bowel and allow him to empty it without assistance.

While the surgery was successful, Hirschsprung’s is a lifelong condition. Gabriel has already faced four suspected episodes of enterocolitis, each requiring urgent treatment and hospital stays of 4 to 7 days.

The care, expertise and compassion shown by the entire team at Bristol Children’s Hospital has been incredible. This skydive is our way of saying thank you – and of helping other children and families who rely on this life-saving care.

Any donation, big or small, is hugely appreciated. Thank you so much for your support.

More about Gabriel’s journey

Hirschsprung’s disease affects around 1 in every 5,000 babies. It occurs when nerve cells are missing from part of the bowel, meaning waste cannot move through properly – which can lead to serious complications if not treated.

Though Gabriel’s pull-through operation was successful, the ongoing risk of enterocolitis remains, and he has already needed urgent hospital treatment on four occasions.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe – JustGiving will never sell them on or send unwanted emails. All donations go directly to the charity, making it the most efficient way to give and helping to cut costs so more money goes to where it’s needed most.