
Abigail and Harrison’s story, told by Sheridan Smith
This is Abigail and Harrison’s story, told by Sheridan Smith.
When Abigail was born, Karen & Paul described their family as ‘complete’. Older brother Harrison doted on his little sister and called her “a little cutie” when she was born. When Abigail was six months old it became clear to her parents that she wasn’t developing as expected. Consequently, Abigail was diagnosed with a rare life limiting condition.
Karen and Paul were introduced to Claire House Hospice where Abigail & Harrison could spend quality time together. Five days before her second birthday, Abigail died. “Something is missing. It’s missing forever”.
“The day after she died we probably wouldn’t have got up that morning but we had to because we had Harrison. We got up because of him. We got dressed because of him. We ate because of him”.
Harrison lived life to fullest after his sister died. Karen and Paul were sure to help Harrison try lots of activities. Then, Harrison was diagnosed with bone cancer in his leg. “They can’t take another one”. Harrison underwent an operation to remove the tumour. His leg had to be amputated. He didn’t let this stop him despite not being able to do all the things his friends were doing.
Claire House once again supported the family and helped Harrison enjoy some amazing days out and have some incredible experiences. “Having a smile on his face was enough for us,” Karen & Paul say. In May 2015, Harrison died aged 12.
“Without Claire House there are a lot of things we wouldn’t have. We wouldn’t have memories… that’s all we’ve got left now. Our memories.”
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2016 Stories—ѿý Children in Need
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