When Erin was three-years-old we were told that that she had a genetic condition called a Chromosome Rearrangement, which means pieces of chromosomes are missing, duplicated or moved around, leaving Erin with learning difficulties.

At the age of five, Erin was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a genetic condition that makes muscles weaker and causes problems with movement.

In 2019, Erin had a Wilms tumour, a type of kidney cancer, and had to have a kidney removed as well as chemotherapy. Something which returned again in November of last year (2023).

Erin started going to Rainbows for respite in 2021.

When at Rainbows, Erin loves to spend time in the Hydrotherapy Pool as well as going on off-site trips and walks to nearby places. Erin also gets to cook and bake in the specially adapted kitchen in their Young People’s Lounge.

We know that when Erin is at Rainbows, she gets to be independent and she is so well looked after. Furthermore, it gives our family some respite from the 24-hour care and it also gives us the chance to do things that we might not be able to do with Erin in her wheelchair.