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Jumping for joy in North West London: Siblings social at Oxygen Acton

January 15, 2025

Our first siblings social in North West London proved to be an overwhelming success, bringing together 32 children for an afternoon of fun. With over 90% of the attendees coming from the local area, the event was especially meaningful for families who might not have had the opportunity to participate in previous Shooting Star events due to distance. Five families were joining a Shooting Star event for the first time, while two others noted that the event’s location made it more accessible for them, allowing them to return after attending other events in the past.

The children spent an exciting hour jumping on trampolines before gathering in a party room for pizza. It was a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere that also provided an opportunity for families to connect over shared experiences.

The sibling social at Oxygen Acton was a lively mix of activities, including dodgeball, a steep slide and a timed obstacle course. There was even a ‘Gladiator’ tournament, a fun competition where children took turns battling with cushions in a winner-stays-on style. Louisa Atherton, one of our Family Support Workers, highlighted the excitement, sharing, “It was wonderful to see all the kids joining in, even the younger ones who could barely hold up the ‘sword.’ They were seriously strategising and having a blast.”

Hannah Pickup, Events Assistant commented: “We believe it’s crucial to create spaces where siblings of life-limited children can come together. They share a unique bond that others might not fully understand, and events like this provide an invaluable sense of community. Whether they are anticipating or experiencing loss, these events help them know they are not alone.”

The afternoon was full of laughter, cheer, and fun. The children were not only engaged in the activities of the day but also shared stories of their recent holidays, played charades, and enjoyed pizza and chips together.

For everyone involved, it was clear that the connections created at events like this leave a lasting impact, providing both a sense of belonging and a much-needed opportunity to have some fun. Events like these only possible thanks to our generous supporters, please consider donating today.