Every day can be an uphill challenge for Jack and Jill families and, this October, the charity is urging people to climb or walk a local hill in solidarity with the seven Donegal families currently under its care.
The eighth annual Up the Hill for Jack and Jill fundraising challenge, proudly supported by Abbott, is about to launch next month.
Anne Reilly, liaison nurse manager for Donegal, explains that the challenge will support families with children with severe to profound neurodevelopmental delay.
Every parent needs a break, Anne says: “It’s a privilege to be a part of the lives of Jack and Jill families. These are ordinary parents facing the extraordinary care needs of a child with a complex medical condition; a child who may not be able to walk or talk, who may be tube-fed or oxygen-dependent, requiring intensive, around-the-clock care, at home. But everyone needs a break, and that’s where we come in, literally, into the home, to give them relief and we are very proud to walk this care journey with them.”
The Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation provides specialist in-home nursing care and respite support for children with severe to profound neurodevelopmental delay, up to the age of six. This includes children who may have a brain injury, cerebral palsy, a genetic diagnosis or other undiagnosed condition. Another key part of the service is end-of-life care at home for all children up to the age of six who require it, irrespective of diagnosis.
This is a significant year for the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, as it celebrates 25 years. The nationwide charity has reached its own summit in 2022 by providing support to 412 children, the highest number in its 25-year history. Indeed, Jack and Jill has provided support to 67 Donegal families since it was first established. To meet its steep care commitment, the charity is asking people across Donegal to support local families in their community by going Up the Hill for Jack and Jill.
Taking part in Up the Hill is simple – pick a hill, make a date, grab some friends, and go! Find out how you can support Jack and Jill families in your community at www.JackandJill.ie
3 Simple Steps to Go Up the Hill for Jack and Jill
Step 1 – Register today for just €18 per person at JackandJill.ie, which will support one hour of specialist in-home nursing care for a local Jack and Jill family. Your pack will include a colourful, eco-friendly, Up the Hill banner
Step 2 – Choose your Hill. There’s a local hill around the corner to suit your fitness level and ability, and whether you go high or go low, it’s the taking part that keeps Jack and Jill on the go!
Step 3 – Grab some friends, family, neighbours or colleagues, pick a date that suits and make it a day out to remember. Bring a picnic to celebrate when you get to the top and remember to take a photo with your Up the Hill banner and tag Jack and Jill on social media with #UptheHill22 so everyone can see you!
For more information on Up the Hill for Jack and Jill 2022, visit www.jackandjill.ie or telephone Jack and Jill at 045 894538.
