We started coming along to sessions at the old centre, and from the very beginning, Little Miracles gave our family something we hadn’t realised we were missing – a sense of belonging.

Both of my children were able to access services and activities that we probably wouldn’t have had anywhere else. But it wasn’t just about the services. They made friendships, created amazing memories and became part of something much bigger.

My daughter Leonie was born with TOF/OA, the same condition as Little Miracles founder Michelle’s son Oliver. She had surgery when she was born and has since had around ten dilatations, but it still causes her problems every day. She also has cerebral palsy, scoliosis, hydrocephalus, optic nerve hypoplasia, epilepsy, Sotos syndrome, asthma, eczema and hay fever, as well as moderate learning disabilities. She experiences severe anxiety and depression and is currently having therapy with a psychologist.

Her older brother has mild learning disabilities and dyslexia, alongside OCD, asthma, eczema and hay fever, as well as two knee conditions.

Life can be complicated when you’re raising children with additional needs, and there have been plenty of difficult times over the years. Having somewhere we could go where people understood without us having to explain everything made such a difference.

I became more involved with Little Miracles myself. I started by helping to welcome families, then moved into Family Support and, just before the big DIY SOS build, I became a trustee. I continued working in Family Support for several years before becoming Branch Coordinator nearly three years ago.

Looking back, it feels like I’ve come full circle. The charity that once supported my family is now somewhere I can help support other families.

For me, Little Miracles has given me confidence, friendships and a real sense of purpose. I know what it feels like to need support and not know where to turn, so being able to help provide that support for someone else makes everything I do feel worthwhile.

Over the years, I’ve made friendships through Little Miracles that I know will last a lifetime. The support the charity has given our family is irreplaceable, and honestly, I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it.

And Leonie is still part of Little Miracles too. Now almost 21, she continues to access services and even helps me at some of my sessions. Watching her go from a little girl coming through the doors to now helping other families feels incredibly special.

When I asked Leonie what Little Miracles means to her, she said it has given her friendships, lots of amazing memories and support from all the staff and volunteers.

I think that sums it up perfectly.

Little Miracles has been there for our whole family for 15 years. It has supported my children, supported me, given us friendships, confidence and memories, and given us somewhere we truly feel we belong.

For us, Little Miracles isn’t just a charity. It really has become our second family."