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ERIC Christmas Appeal 2024: Ivan’s Story
Help children like Ivan and their families to feel supported and not alone.
With your help, we can ensure that our services keep reaching the families who need us.
Ivan's story
Ivan was born with two rare genetic syndromes, which affects his communication and his motor skills. He began to experience constipation from the age of 2 and despite receiving laxatives from the GP, his problems only seemed to worsen. This usually calm, happy boy began screaming, thrashing in pain and vomiting. Nobody knew the cause.
The pitch and desperation of his cries was unbearable for his mum, Elissa, who frequently ended up taking him to A&E in sheer panic. At its worst, he was in A&E weekly or fortnightly for enemas. Once, he needed four enemas in 10 days.
“My heart breaks for him. All that time when he was supposed to be enjoying being a toddler, he’s spent screaming in pain. It’s just so unfair,” said Elissa.
After hearing about ERIC, Elissa realised they were not alone. “Finally there was someone there who listened to me. I know there’s somewhere I can go where people understand, and that’s worth so much”.
Donate now
Every donation we receive, however big or small, means we can be there for families like Ivan’s when they need it most.
Can help fund online resources to support families with their child's continence issue.
It costs around £40 for a continence expert to provide 30 minutes’ telephone support to a parent who needs us.
Could enable us to deliver a webinar for families to get support in managing the daily challenges of their child's condition.
Donate now
Every donation we receive, however big or small, means we can be there for families like Ivan's when they need it most.
Can help fund online resources to support families with their child's continence issue.
It costs around £40 for a continence expert to provide 30 minutes’ telephone support to a parent who needs us.
Could enable us to deliver a webinar for families to get support in managing the daily challenges of their child's condition.
"ERIC offers me relief. They listen to me and their experts are there to explain when things get confusing. I'm not alone anymore and that's worth so much".
Our fundraising promise
We're committed to being transparent and honest. Our supporter promise tells you what you can expect when you donate or fundraise for ERIC.