Harriet
Harriet was diagnosed with Behçet’s Syndrome at the age of seven, a rare inflammatory condition that can affect multiple parts of the body, including the joints, causing pain, stiffness and arthritis-like symptoms.
Her health challenges began from birth. Shortly after she was born, Harriet was rushed to hospital with suspected sepsis, although she was later diagnosed with viral meningitis. From that point on, she remained under care at Alder Hey.
At the age of five, Harriet began developing significant fluid build-up in her hips and was referred to rheumatology. Around the same time, she experienced severe vomiting and started developing painful mouth ulcers. It was then that Dr Payne, Harriet’s clinician, diagnosed her with Behçet’s Syndrome.
In March 2025, Harriet’s condition worsened significantly. She was admitted to Alder Hey overnight after becoming unable to walk due to severe swelling in her knees. By June 2025, she required crutches for three months. New medication was introduced, which helped improve her symptoms considerably.
Throughout her treatment, Harriet has received outstanding support from the rheumatology, physiotherapy and psychology teams at Alder Hey. They were determined that her condition would not stop her from pursuing her passion for dance and cheerleading. Despite the challenges she faces, Harriet continues to make wonderful memories. One of her highlights was a trip to Florida with bestie and fellow Matalan campaign star, Romily, where they had an amazing time together. Harriet’s mum Heather describes Harriet as inspiring and says she always feels emotional watching her overcome obstacles and achieve so much.
“The team at Alder Hey know her not just as a diagnosis but as a person. Dancing and cheer is such a massive part of her life and without Alder Hey, that wouldn’t be possible.” Heather, Harriet’s mum.