THE PARENTS of the inspirational Holly Prince have shared her story on TV as they prepare for their first Christmas without her.
Holly, from Hindley, was diagnosed with Bloom Syndrome in March 2020, which is a genetic condition with fewer than 300 recorded cases worldwide.
With the condition causing immunodeficiencies, respiratory problems, and a higher likelihood of developing cancer, Holly battled with Bloom Syndrome and intense treatment for two years.
After a tough battle, which included signs of hope and optimism, she sadly passed away in April of this year, aged five.
READ > Tributes pour in for 'beautiful angel' who fought rare condition
Derian House, an end-of-life children's hospice based in Chorley, looked after Holly in the last few weeks of her life.
They also gave support to her dad Mark, mum Jenny, ten-year-old sister Evie, and eight-year-old brother Jack.
In recognition of the care and support they received, the Prince family have taken part in Derian House's first ever TV advert, as part of the charity's Christmas appeal to raise donations.
Holly’s mum, Jenny, said: “Holly spent last Christmas Day in hospital having chemo. She was tired, pale and nauseous but we were hopeful she’d beat it again like she had before.
"But by March she had deteriorated. Our brave girl finally passed away in my arms on April 8 this year.
“She laid at rest in one of the special cold bedrooms at Derian House, which are called the Sunflower rooms.
"We made it feel like home with her princess bedding and favourite teddies – Soapy the dog, an elephant called Nelly and her favourite teddy Willy.
"It felt like we had been given a bit more time with her, a chance to all be together for the last time.”
While Derian House's services are free to families, they cost an estimated £5.7million to run every year, with only 17% of this funding coming from the government.
Sharing their story to support families going through a similar situation, Mark and Jenny asked people to donate to the Derian House to help the charity continue its vital work.
Caroline Taylor, Head of Income, Marketing and Communications at Derian House Children’s Hospice, added: “While many are getting ready to celebrate at this time of year, Christmas can be a difficult time for some families.
“Stories like Holly’s enable us to raise awareness of what we do – and the impact it has.
"Derian House has been helping children make precious memories and giving families care and support when they need it most for almost 30 years.
"We are always here for those who need us.”
Watch Holly’s story here: https://youtu.be/2mj-VkYtx_Y or read more at www.derianhouse.co.uk/holly
There are several ways to donate to Holly’s campaign, including through the post, online, by phone, or by text. Text XMASHOLLY to 70085 to donate £10.
Find out more about Derian House: www.derianhouse.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here