At just 5 weeks old, we took Arlo to A&E as his breathing was laboured due to a chest infection, or so we thought.

Within 48 hours, our world was turned upside down. We were told he had a serious heart condition and would need multiple surgeries. Nothing could have prepared us for that moment.

Four days into Arlo’s hospital stay, things took a turn. He suddenly became very unwell and had to be transferred to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Southampton Children’s Hospital.

Arlo spent five nights in PICU, receiving constant, one-to-one specialist care. The level of attention and expertise was nothing short of phenomenal. It was during this time that he also had his surgery—something we never imagined facing so soon after becoming his parents.

PICU is where the most critically ill children across the South of England and the Channel Islands come for life-saving treatment. It’s a place no parent ever wants to be—but when you need it, you realise just how vital it is.

We’re raising money for Friends of PICU, a charity that helps the NHS deliver the very best care in this unit. From funding equipment to supporting families during long and difficult stays, the charity plays a huge role in making PICU what it is.

The kind of care Arlo received takes incredible resources—and Friends of PICU helps make it all possible.

If you’re able to donate, no matter the amount, it will help support other families going through their own unexpected journeys.

Thank you for helping us give back to the people who gave Arlo such a fighting chance.