Hitchin Family's Lifeline: Charity's Support During Daughter's Critical Illness
A family from Hitchin has expressed profound gratitude to The Sick Children's Trust after their 19-month-old daughter, Rose, became critically ill last November. The toddler was at home with her parents, Emily and Ryan Farmery, when she suddenly suffered a seizure, sparking a terrifying medical emergency that would test the family's resilience.
A Sudden Medical Crisis
Ryan Farmery, 44, described the moment their world turned upside down. "One minute she was our happy, energetic little girl, and the next our world just fell apart," he said. "She hadn't been unwell; there were no warning signs, and we were terrified and completely helpless." After being rushed to Lister Hospital in Stevenage, Rose suffered five more seizures, leading doctors to sedate and intubate her to protect her brain.
Ryan recalled the heart-wrenching scene: "Handing your child over and not knowing what will happen next is something no parent can prepare for. We kissed her and told her we loved her, not knowing what would happen next." Rose was transferred to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, where she was admitted to paediatric intensive care.
Unbearable Waiting and Fear
Rose remained unconscious for two days while doctors tested for life-threatening conditions like meningitis and encephalitis. Ryan shared the emotional toll: "We genuinely thought we might lose her. Seeing her lying there, surrounded by machines and constant alarms, looking so small and fragile, was unbearable and will stay with me forever."
During this frightening time, the family was offered a free room at Acorn House, a 'Home from Home' run by The Sick Children's Trust. This allowed the parents to stay just minutes from Rose's bedside, providing a place to eat, shower, and rest.
The Charity's Crucial Support
Ryan explained how the charity became a lifeline: "We'd never heard of the charity before, but being shown to a quiet room so close to Rose felt like someone had thrown us a lifeline. It might sound simple — a bed, a kitchen, a shower — but when your child is critically ill, those things mean everything."
He added: "We didn't have to worry about hotel costs or travelling, so all our energy could go into being there for Rose." Thankfully, Rose's tests eventually came back clear, and she was able to return home to Hitchin. Within ten days, she was back to her "bright, mischievous self," much to the relief of her family.
A Miraculous Recovery and Lasting Gratitude
"Hearing her laugh again and watching her run around the house felt nothing short of miraculous," said Ryan. The ordeal was particularly challenging for Ryan, a professional musician who was mid-tour with the 80s pop band ABC. He managed to find cover for his shows to remain by his daughter's side during the most critical days.
While the cause of the seizures remains unexplained, the family says they will never forget the kindness they were shown. Ryan concluded: "The Sick Children's Trust gave us comfort, stability and the precious gift of being by Rose's side. We will carry that gratitude with us forever."
