Brave Elysia shares hospice experience

Elysia Havard, 21, who lives with her parents David and Vanessa near Wendover attended the event to mark national Hospice Week earlier this month.

Elysia has been visiting Douglas House since June 2013, she suffers from a complex condition which means that she has had to undergo a heart and lung transplant and a failed renal transplant.

She said: “I’m so proud of myself. I receive all of the help I need and my mum is confident that my feeds and medicines are given to me correctly.

“I’m not worried about having seizures at Douglas House, as there is always someone close by and they have a listening system in the rooms.

“It is my special place where I feel more independent and grown-up.

“I love being able to make my own decisions about things to do and love being with the staff as they are great fun and we have a lovely time together.”

Helen & Douglas House cares for terminally ill young people and their families.

The event, which was 
held in Douglas House, was also attended by representitives from Sue Ryder Nettlebed, Sobell House and Katharine House.

A recorded message from Prime Minister David Cameron was also aired during the celebration.

Mr Cameron used the opportunity to express his 
personal gratitude for the help he and his wife Samantha received from Helen House which cared for their late son Ivan.