Alan and his wife are parents to three children – Georgia (12), Finley (10), and Elliot (7). Elliot has cerebral palsy and is nonverbal and for the past three years their family has been supported by Helen & Douglas House.
Like many parents, Alan never imagined hospice care would be part of his family’s life. At first, the word itself carried fear and uncertainty. But what they found at Helen & Douglas House was something entirely different.
Creating moments that matter
Helen & Douglas House has given Alan and Elliot something incredibly valuable: time together without pressure.
“The hospice offers such a safe, kind, loving environment with so much to do, where you can spend time together playing and making memories with the support of the staff.”
Some of those moments have stayed with him, especially the garden parties, where animals visit the hospice.
“Without a doubt, that’s my favourite memory. Watching Elliot smile and hearing his laugh as he interacts with the animals is so heartwarming.”
It’s these small, joyful experiences that mean everything.
A place for the whole family
While Elliot benefits from respite stays, Georgia and Finley are also supported through sibling services giving them space to talk, be themselves, and connect with others who understand their experience.
“Care at its best doesn’t just focus on the individual, it wraps around the entire family. That sense of partnership has made us feel less alone in something that can otherwise feel very isolating.”
For Alan and his family, it’s about all of them feeling supported, even when the challenges are complex. This is something Helen & Douglas House understands deeply, providing that vital support system for the whole family.
“Helen & Douglas House offers so much to our family – support for Elliot through respite stays at the hospice, a sibling support programme, and amazing adventure days for Georgia and Finley, as well as medical advice and the chance to be part of the Helen & Douglas House family.”
Not doing it alone
This Father’s Day, Alan’s story is a reminder that strength doesn’t always look the way we expect. Sometimes, it’s found in asking for help.
“I’ve said it so many times. Helen & Douglas House offers so much to our family… the support, the care, the memories, the chance to be part of something bigger.”
Through Helen & Douglas House, Alan has met other fathers who understand the realities of raising a child with complex needs. That shared understanding has made a lasting difference.
“You realise you’re not alone, and that so many people carry such a positive mindset and outlook on life – it drives you on. They offer great tips and advice, whether it’s finding better support, people to talk to, or simple day-to-day ideas that make life that little bit easier.”
And for Alan, that’s what being a dad is all about. Showing up, every day, with love.
The meaning of Father’s Day
“It’s a lovely day where we get to spend time together as a family, they spoil me rotten and it focuses our time to play and have fun.”
For Alan, Father’s Day isn’t about perfection it’s about presence. It’s about laughter, togetherness, and making memories that feel normal, even when life isn’t simple. And at Helen & Douglas House, we make these moments possible for the families we support.
