The Todd family from Mildenhall, supported by East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH), are preparing to take on the charity's Mini Pier 2 Pier challenge. Amy and James Todd will walk alongside their eight-year-old son Oliver, who has Muscular Dystrophy, a condition diagnosed shortly after his third birthday.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Oliver had previously met all his developmental milestones, but a playgroup staff member noticed the way he got up from the floor. Having cared for two boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy before, she raised concerns. An occupational therapist then introduced the family to EACH.
Since then, the Todds have enjoyed a self-day care session, attended Milton's festive Winter Wonderland event, and taken part in hydrotherapy sessions. In June, Oliver spent his first day at the hospice without his parents during a special day for boys with Muscular Dystrophy.
Changing Perceptions of Hospice Care
Amy Todd said: "I had no idea of all the things a children's hospice could offer and provide. Like so many others, I just associated them with end of life and the worst-case scenario. In fact, Milton has a very different feel. It's warm and homely rather than cold and clinical, and everyone's so friendly."
She added: "That's why we were so pleased to sign up for this walk. It's our way of giving something back. It's fully accessible and something we're really looking forward to enjoying together. Oliver's particularly excited about receiving a medal for completing the challenge."
Oliver's Love for the Hospice
According to Amy, Oliver enjoys every visit to Milton: "He absolutely loves his time at the hospice. He enjoys hydro but also loves playing games and having fun with other children and members of the care team. Leaving him for the first time was a big deal for us, but he didn't look back and barely said goodbye. He got talking to another lad as soon as we arrived. Within seconds, they were chatting away, and that put us all at ease. He finds comfort being around other children in a similar position, who also use wheelchairs. It makes him realise he's not the only one."
Inspiration from Oliver's Determination
James Todd said Oliver's positivity and determination inspire the whole family: "Oliver's a real character - very spirited and determined and always laughing and joking. In terms of his condition, we get more upset than he does. Nothing holds him back, and he doesn't like being told what he can and can't do. It makes him more determined to prove people wrong. He doesn't like preferential treatment and likes being classed like every other young boy of his age."
The Magic of Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy has been particularly special for Oliver, who attends All Saints Primary School in Newmarket. James recalled: "His face lights up in the water. He loves it, and I remember one time he beamed up at me and said, 'Look, Dad, I can walk,' because the water was supporting him. It was a beautiful moment. I really like the friendships he's built with the other boys. Like any lads their age, they have lots of banter and a sense of competitiveness - but they also seem to have built a real connection and care about each other."
Mini Pier 2 Pier Event Details
Mini Pier 2 Pier is a 3.5-mile family-friendly walk around Southwold, taking place alongside the charity's main Pier 2 Pier Suffolk event on September 12. Starting and finishing at Southwold Pier, the accessible route follows a picturesque loop along the coast, harbour and town, giving families, younger walkers and first-time participants the chance to support the vital care provided by EACH. Participants aged 15 and under can take part free of charge when accompanied by a registered adult, with everyone being encouraged to raise £50.
Support from EACH
Ellie Nevard, EACH events fundraiser, said: "We're delighted Oliver and his family are joining us for Mini Pier 2 Pier. It's wonderful to see Amy, James and Oliver wanting to give something back after experiencing the support available at Milton. We can't wait to welcome them to Southwold and are so grateful they're helping raise awareness as well as vital funds that will help us to continue supporting children and families across East Anglia."
To show your support and sponsor the Todd family, visit eastangliaschildrenshospices.enthuse.com/pf/olivers-stride-tribe. To find out more and sign up for Mini Pier 2 Pier, visit www.each.org.uk/support-us/events/mini-pier-2-pier-2026.
