This spring, we’re taking a moment to reflect on your incredible support and the difference your donations make every single day. Thanks to you, we’re able to provide vital care and comfort to babies and families when they need it most.

We’d love to share Annabelle’s story, a powerful example of the impact your generosity has had. Through the support of Zoe’s Place, Annabelle has become part of our family, and the care she received has reached far beyond her, touching the lives of those closest to her as well.

Your kindness helps create moments of relief, joy, and support for families facing the most challenging times.

Please take a moment to read Annabelle’s story and see the difference you’ve made. If you can, consider donating today to help more children and families access the same compassionate care that Annabelle and her family experienced at Zoe’s Place.

Annabelle was born prematurely at 33 weeks on what is described by her family as one of the most difficult days they have ever experienced. Shortly after her birth, doctors discovered that Annabelle had suffered an infarct on the brain. But, naivety to the medical world meant they had no idea what was to come.

During her first year of life, Annabelle suffered eight strokes, each causing damage to different areas of her brain. At one stage, her family were told it was unlikely she would live to see her first birthday. Today, however, Annabelle is approaching her eighth birthday and preparing to graduate from Zoe’s Place; something her family once feared might never be possible.

Annabelle’s family were introduced to Zoe’s Place when she was just two years old. They had recently moved back to the area shortly before the Covid pandemic began, and after months of shielding and spending almost every moment together at home, being introduced to the hospice came at exactly the right time.

At first, leaving Annabelle at the hospice felt incredibly daunting to her family. Since the day she was born, they had been by Annabelle’s side around the clock. However, the team at Zoe’s Place quickly helped ease those worries. Their kindness, reassurance and obvious love for the children soon made it clear that Annabelle was in the very best hands.

Today, Zoe’s Place gives Annabelle the chance to simply be a child, spending time with other children and enjoying play and activities without the constant focus on her complex medical needs. One of her favourite activities is music time with Play Leader Beth, as well as sessions with Ashleigh from The Amber Trust, which always bring her so much joy.

For Annabelle’s family, the hospice has had a hugely positive impact. Knowing that Annabelle is safe, happy and well cared for allows her family time to rest, recharge and spend time with other family members.

The family are passionate about giving back to the hospice. Annabelle’s mum, Rachel regularly takes part in fundraising events and is preparing to run her fourth half marathon in support of Zoe’s Place, including running the London Landmarks Half Marathon for the third time. When training becomes tough, she says she thinks about the strength of the children supported by the hospice, which always keeps her going.

For Annabelle’s family, what makes Zoe’s Place truly special is the people. From the nurses and care assistants to the volunteers and fundraising team, everyone plays a part in creating a warm and welcoming environment where families feel supported and understood.

Zoe’s Place relies heavily on the generosity of donors and the wider community to continue its work. For families like Annabelle’s, the hospice provides far more than care, it offers reassurance, community and hope during some of life’s most challenging moments. Continued support ensures that Zoe’s Place can remain there for the children and families who need it, both now and in the future.

Thank you for your continued support of Zoe’s Place, it truly means the world to our staff, volunteers, and the babies and families we care for every day.