Watch Alison and Warren share their son Dylan-James’ story, and see how Shooting Star provided light when the unimaginable happened.
We bring light to the darkest of moments
Help us support more families like Dylan-James'
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Whether you make a one-off donation or a monthly gift, every penny you kindly donate will make a huge difference to the children and families we support.
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Families we support
“Without Shooting Star, we wouldn’t be where we are now.”
Following unexplained seizures shortly after she was born, Vanessa was diagnosed with an incredibly rare genetic condition.
"The counsellors saved our lives and I don't say that lightly."
After being given the devastating news that their son’s cancer had returned, Alison and Warren spent a week at Shooting Star Children’s Hospices making memories they’ll cherish forever.
“They held our hands through the unimaginable."
Despite arriving prematurely and needing immediate surgery, Louie, a happy and playful baby, was reaching the usual milestones until he caught what seemed to be a common cold in the summer of 2021.
The difference we made in 2024/25
657
Children and young people with life-limiting conditions supported.
448
Bereaved families accessed our specialist bereavement care.
1,815
Care nights and end-of life bed nights were provided.
18,257
Face-to-face and telephone contacts were made to families by our Family Support team, community nurses and SPACE team.
Access our support
We support children with life-limiting conditions and their families living across Surrey, south-west London and north-west London. Our care is available from diagnosis and includes practical support, therapies, respite, family groups and events, use of our hospice facilities and much more. We also support families not previously known to us through our specialist bereavement service. Learn more about our support and how families can access it.
Other ways to support us
Take part in an event
From scenic strolls to scaling a mountain, we have events to suit all tastes.
Volunteer
Whether you can spare a few hours a week or help us at a one-off event, our volunteers make a huge difference.
Leave a gift in your will.
Help make short lives wonderful by leaving a gift in your will.