Bereavement support

David was referred to Rainbow Trust after being diagnosed with a rare blood disorder. It took a long time to make the diagnosis whilst his family were struggling to cope with repeated hospital visits and uncertainty.

David had a bone marrow transplant in an attempt to treat his disease but died shortly after being discharged from hospital. Mandy, the Family Support Worker, helped David's mother make funeral arrangements and was there to support the family during this difficult time. Mandy spent time with David's brothers and sister, grandparents, cousins and other members of the family.

Shortly after David's death, his older brother, Christopher, was diagnosed with the same disease and is now waiting for a bone marrow transplant. His sister, Nina, will be his donor. Mandy continues to support the family as they wait for his admission to the same hospital to undergo the same procedures. She accompanies the family to hospital, spends time with them at home and supports David's mother as she tries to maintain everyday life. Mandy will continue to work with them all through the anxieties of Christopher’s illness and treatment and while they continue to deal with David’s death.

“I have been through a tough, terrible ordeal. Mandy has always been a willing ear and was always there at the right time. I don't think I would have been able to cope without Rainbow's support.” David’s mother