‘Until we came to Tŷ Hafan I felt like I was drowning’
Hannah Coles’ nine‑year‑old son Sebastian has severe cerebral palsy following a brain injury as a baby. Earlier this year the family began receiving support from Tŷ Hafan, and Hannah says it has been life‑changing.
“We got accepted for support at Easter and instantly got this wave of support. It took my breath away and I’m so thankful. Until we came to Tŷ Hafan I felt like I was drowning and now I feel like I’m not.”
Sebastian has already benefited from a week‑long stay for symptom management, which led to new medication and a more settled routine.
Support for the whole family
Hannah, her husband Troy, and daughter Holly have all been welcomed into the hospice community.
“Seb has been so much more settled since his stay. The support isn’t just for him — it’s for all of us as a family,” Hannah explained.
Raising awareness through the Dark Run
The Coles family will help launch Tŷ Hafan’s Dark Run at the National Botanic Garden of Wales on Saturday 25 October. The 2.5k fun run is a chance for families to enjoy a spooky evening together while raising vital funds.
Hannah says the event is about more than just dressing up and running:
“Not only is the Dark Run a lot of fun, it helps raise awareness about what Tŷ Hafan does and raises money for the charity, which is vital to them being able to help more families like mine.”2.5
‘A lifeline for families across Wales’
Tŷ Hafan supports around 300 children with life‑shortening conditions and thousands of family members each year. With only 13% of its funding coming from statutory sources, the charity relies heavily on public donations and events like the Dark Run.
James Davies‑Hale, Head of Fundraising at Tŷ Hafan, said:
“By taking part you’ll be helping to ensure that no family has to live their child’s short life alone.”
