A kind-hearted schoolboy has signed up for a day of wacky fun to support the hospice that cared for his baby brother.
Josh Rawlings, who celebrated his eighth birthday on Easter Saturday, never met little James, who suffered severe complications after being born in April 2016. Sadly, he died just over two weeks later.
James and his parents, Jo and Jon, were supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
Now, nine years on, Josh wants to raise funds and has signed up for the charity’s Piglet Junior Hog – a fun-filled event featuring a host of wet and muddy obstacles, taking place near Woodbridge on 13th July.
He is doing it in memory of his brother and also to help ensure other families receive similar help when they need it most.
“I’m excited but nervous,” said talented footballer and swimmer Josh, a pupil at Sprites Primary Academy, in Ipswich.
“I’ve seen some pictures and videos online, and it looks fun. I know I’m going to get very muddy and think it’s going to be great.
“I spoke to my mum about doing something to raise money, because I want to help other families and like going to The Treehouse. I feel close to my brother there and have been shown the room he spent time in.”
After being born in 2016, James was transferred to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
He was dependent on a life-support machine, and it was there his parents were introduced to EACH and given the opportunity to move to The Treehouse.
Jo and Jon were able to bring their newborn son home when he started breathing for himself, but, sadly, he died after just 18 days.
EACH continued to support the family in terms of memory-making and counselling.
“I’m so proud of Josh, because this is something positive he’s doing off his own back,” said Jo, who lives in Ipswich.
“He wants to make a difference and this is his way of doing that, while also having fun at the same time.
“Although he never met James, he knows how special he was, and we talk about him all the time.
“Josh still sleeps with a cuddly cheetah toy that was originally bought for James. We always say white feathers make us think of him, too.
“Josh knows how much help and support we got from EACH and what an important place The Treehouse is.
“I couldn’t be more proud. This event is ideal for him, and Josh has already told all his schoolfriends, who think he’s doing a great thing.”
Jo says she will forever be grateful for the support they received.
“EACH turned a horrendous situation into something I can look back on with fondness,” she said.
“They’ve been there for us every step of the way, and it’s like a second family.
“People think the worst when they hear the word ‘hospice’.
“I had my own perceptions, but it was the complete opposite when we turned up that night.
“It was amazing. The staff couldn’t do enough, and it wasn’t depressing at all.
“In fact, it was one of the happiest, cosiest places I’ve ever been and somewhere I felt close to James.
“I felt safe there and still do, even now when I go back with Josh. It still feels like a second home.”
To make a donation and support Josh, head here.
The Piglet Junior Hog is being held at Wantisden Hall, in Woodbridge, on 13th July. Families have the chance to tackle 30 wacky obstacles, water and mud along a fun 4km route.
More than 1,150 people signed up last year – in the process raising a magnificent £38,000 for EACH. To find out more and book a place, head here.
