When Felix was born, he was floppy and unresponsive. Doctors had to resuscitate him twice. This was his first traumatic experience in healthcare, but sadly, not his last.

Over the next four years, Felix spent a quarter of his life in hospital. He underwent countless invasive procedures, lumbar punctures, EMGs, biopsies, as doctors tried to diagnose his rare illness.

Right now, across the UK, other seriously ill children like Felix are experiencing trauma in healthcare. 

Why your Support Matters!

Felix was eventually diagnosed with a complex genetic disorder. He can’t swallow liquids safely, or play on a trampoline with friends without risking dislocation. At just seven years old, sacrifice has defined much of his life.

But things changed when Starlight’s play team stepped in.

They gave Felix a Starlight Teddy, a soft toy companion who helped him through every frightening procedure. 

Felix would comfort his teddy, bravely putting on his own oxygen mask, getting his stats checked, and even entering the MRI scanner with Ted by his side. Treatment became so much easier. 

No more trauma for Felix, and no more ripped dresses for mum.