Mila

When Mila was just one year old, she spent a long time at Alder Hey after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. It was a frightening and uncertain time for her family, made even more emotional because Mila had to spend Christmas in hospital.

Although Mila was too small to remember everything about that Christmas, her mum often tells her how the staff at Alder Hey transformed the wards into a place full of warmth, light and comfort. Decorations filled the corridors, nurses and doctors brought festive cheer wherever they went, and much to Mila’s delight, Santa somehow managed to find her in hospital.

For her mum, watching Mila open a present on Christmas morning was a moment she will never forget. Among the worry and fear surrounding her daughter’s illness, seeing her smile reminded her that there was still magic and hope to be found, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Today, Mila is doing well thanks to the care she received, and she still returns to Alder Hey for her regular check-ups. Visiting at Christmastime is something she especially looks forward to. She loves seeing the decorations, meeting the teams who looked after her, and spending a little time in the hospital’s Grotto, an experience that continues to make her feel brave, even when she feels nervous.

Mila’s story is a reminder of how important it is for children and families to feel supported, comforted, and cared for during their time in hospital, especially at Christmas. Thanks to the incredible work of Alder Hey’s staff, and the continued support of our community, we can bring moments of joy and magic to young patients like Mila when they need it most.