Dear Editor

This Father’s Day, on June 16th, I will celebrate every second with my sons Arthur, Marcel and Eddie, because I know how lucky I am.

In 2017, my family’s hopes and dreams were blown away when Arthur, then eight, was diagnosed with leukaemia. Ordinary life disappeared in a flash. Suddenly we had to find a ‘new normal’. We could only plan for the next five minutes, the next step, the next test or the next hospital procedure.

I believe that this experience, however, changed us for the better. We have met so many amazing people, including Janet, our Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker, who has been an essential part of Arthur’s recovery.

Supporting the whole family through highs and lows, we could not imagine coping without her.

She took away the worry about getting to hospital appointments, she entertained Arthur while we discussed treatments with consultants, and took Eddie to fun hospital activities.

We have lost some courageous children along the way, so we celebrate everything now, including Arthur’s ‘end of treatment bell’ anniversary. We are really grateful that he’s had what feels like a second chance.

Join us by celebrating Rainbow Trust this Father’s Day and visit rainbowtrust.org.uk to find out more or make a donation.

Roy Styles

Rainbow Trust

Children’s Charity