We are a small Bristol based charity, working to help children that are affected by cancer. Whether that is the diagnosed child themselves, or the brother or sister of that child.
Through the journey of caring for two children diagnosed with cancer we have realised there are opportunities to help, in particular with the brothers and sisters of those sick children.
Both of our children experienced the feeling of being the sibling of a very sick child. Through no fault of anyone, families will focus on the sick child, working hard to help them through treatment and busy hospital appointments.
This can often lead to brothers and sisters of those children feeling confused and isolated, sometimes even resentful of the attention the sick child is getting, especially if they are younger children, who will find the situation difficult to process.
Our aim is simple, to give those siblings opportunities to continue to feel an important part of the family unit during very difficult times. To help them feel included and maintain strong bonds with their brother or sister is important to all children affected.

Started by a family, for families, and now shaped by families

Jessie May is a Bristol-based charity providing nursing care at home for children and young people with life limiting conditions who are not expected to live beyond the age of 19. Jessie May was established in September 1994 by Chris and Philippa Purrington, following the death of their baby daughter Jessica May. She died from a genetic condition known as severe Spinal Muscular Atrophy when she was only 4½ months old.

Whilst the family were visiting relatives in Bristol, Jessica was admitted to the local hospital. It was here that the family learnt that the support they had received back at home in High Wycombe was not available to families caring for their child at home in the Bristol area. Jessica was cared for by her family at home throughout her illness. She died peacefully at home in her father’s arms, in privacy, with dignity and surrounded by all those who loved her.

Jessica’s parents were determined to do what they could to enable other children with conditions like Jessica’s and their families to have support in their own homes and the choice to die at home when that time comes. After a lot of hard work and perseverance initial funding was secured, and Jessie May was officially launched in 1996.

https://www.jessiemay.org.uk/