Having been fortunate enough to have been born in good health, and so too our families, we didn’t realise just how many children face challenges from the second they are born.
Almost one in every 100 children born in the UK has a heart problem of differing severity. Indeed, congenital heart defects are one of the most common of all life threatening abnormalities. As experts discover new methods of treatment and continue to pioneer techniques that enable a significant number of children to live normal lives, the demand on cardiac units is increasing.
The Birmingham Children’s Hospital is no different. Being one of the busiest paediatric heart centres in the UK it has not only developed a first class reputation within the UK, but also internationally.
It is because of this that the medical teams now see over 10,000 children every year. While some of these conditions can be monitored or require minimal intervention, many cannot – as was the case with Ethan. Indeed, approximately 80 per cent of all surgical procedures at the hospital are open heart operations with many of them being performed on children under the age of one year (in the region of 60 per cent).
The surgeons at Birmingham Children’s Hospital are increasingly treating more complex heart defects and as a result, they need the support of the latest technology. Our fundraising contributes to this.
Please help us to match the first class skill of the surgeons with the world class technology available. These children deserve to be given the best chance possible.
Our aims
Ethan made an impact upon so many people during his three short years. His sense of humour, happiness and courage enabled him to deal with the challenges he encountered.
It is because of this that his family and friends are determined to create a legacy in his memory by applying those characteristics to help other cardiac children across the UK.
Aim 1
To raise funds to help the cardiac unit at The Birmingham Children’s Hospital and to support other Heart related causes.
Aim 2
To encourage and promote fundraising events in order to meet objective 1. Above all, the aim of all who support Ethan’s Gift is to help little hearts beat stronger.
Q&A
What is the money used for?
All funds donated to Ethan’s Gift go directly to the cardiac unit at The Birmingham Children’s Hospital or to other heart related causes in the UK. To ensure visibility of a direct correlation between donations and impact upon the lives of cardiac children, we ensure that all funds are allocated for the purchase of equipment or to provide support where needed.
How can I get involved?
Simple ideas, with the generosity of others, can make a massive difference to the lives of cardiac children and their families.
Whether a fancy dress day, a raffle or a sponsored bike ride, or simply a donation, every approach will have a direct impact upon our fundraising efforts. To find out more, visit the Get involved section of the site.
Give a little, help a lot – Text ETHA50£1 to 70070