ellenor

​“I’m very proud to work for ellenor – I work for an incredible charity knowing that our shops make a difference to the local community”.

​ellenor – the charity supporting those with life-limiting illnesses and their families – doesn’t count ‘unsung heroes’ among its staff. This is because each person who works for the charity is acknowledged and celebrated as an essential part of the ellenor team.

So often, those who volunteer with us have their own connections that have brought them to the charity – and they will often say, too, that they feel they gain as much from their work with us as they give. Here, Suzanne Wood tells her story.

For over six years, Sam Politt has been a Children’s Care Assistant at ellenor. Friends ask her how she copes with her challenging, sometimes emotional work – especially given that she’s got a nine-year-old daughter herself. She says, “My role is to look after children who, despite illness, are most often cheeky, smiley and bouncy – just like every child is.”

​Florence’s journey started in January 2020 when she was diagnosed with Leukaemia (AML) as a family we were thrust into the world of a cancer diagnosis! We quickly learnt about blood counts, side effects and the gruelling chemotherapy treatment that Florence had to endure.

Bringing expertise from London hospitals direct to children in their own homes is an under-recognised service that forms the foundation of care provided by ellenor. Thanks to this partnership approach, many children under ellenor’s care in Kent can make fewer journeys and spend less time attending hospitals in London for their appointments.

There are times when a mother’s instinct really can be a lifesaver. As a mum of three, Carrie Wilson knew her baby daughter Grace was suffering from something way beyond the usual illnesses.

Families of children who have a life limiting or life-threatening condition will know, it’s a worrying and frightening time, but their journey is made a little easier thanks to our Children’s Palliative Care Team.

When children are coping with serious illness, many parties – often based in different areas – may be involved in their treatment. The practical and emotional implications of coping with a complex schedule of appointments can, quite understandably, sometimes feel overwhelming for the families involved.

​With more and more children having a life-limiting condition, how to help them live well with the time they have available is the ellenor mantra. As each child is different and their needs are unique, ellenor works in partnership with them and their families to create a bespoke support service throughout their lives and beyond.