In memory of Bella, aged 14

People get involved with Chestnut Tree House for so many reasons – some people want to fundraise and support a local charity, while others have a more personal connection, like Janee. A few weeks ago, Janee held Togetherfest at The Mac’s Farm in Ditching. The family-friendly music event – with live music, food and drink, and entertainment – attracted more than 350 people, and raised some £6,000 for Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice in memory of Bella, who died at just 14 years old.

Bella was the inspiration behind the fundraising event, as she absolutely loved music. Janee describes Bella as a positive, full of life, and brave young girl. At the age of seven, Bella was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare type of bone cancer that affects fewer than 30 children in the UK each year.

Bella underwent chemotherapy and had her upper leg amputated to remove the cancer, the treatment was successful, and the family had over three years in remission. They thought that was it. A few years later, the family received the devastating news that Bella’s cancer had returned to her lungs; Bella then went back into remission. But about a year a half later, it came back. And that’s when the end-oflife care started.

With the support of Chestnut Tree House’s Community Team, the family were able to spend Bella’s last month at home together as a family. Reflecting on this time, Janee said the team were always on the other end of the phone if they had any questions or worries, and the staff were simply incredible. On April 1, 2019, Bella sadly died at home, with her Mum and Dad by her side.

If you’ve been inspired by

Bella’s story and Togetherfest and would like to find out more about Chestnut Tree House, visit chestnut.org.uk