In 2023, my son Andrew was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease, an autoimmune disease which attacks the intestines and causes inflammation and chronic pain. 

Our initial stay in hospital was the rudest shock of our lives. It was a nightmare for all concerned, but especially for Andrew. Not only was he in so much pain, he was away from home, stuck in his room, and being poked and prodded all day every day. 

Our first hospital stay was the longest one we have ever experienced: six months! But we were so lucky, we had the Starlight Captains and the playroom right down the hall from our room. Without that vital support, it would have been a hundredfold more difficult to get through this journey. 

The Starlight Captains did everything they could to meet us where we were at, provide us with joy and relief, and help Andrew through his health journey to recovery. 

In the darkest his journey, Andrew's treatment was not working well, we were facing down the possibility of major surgery and, on top of that, it was his birthday! The Captains brought brightness into that dark hour by reminding us what celebration, hope and community looks like, even in hospital. I am completely confident that their generosity and love was a powerful force in helping our resilience in hospital and in speeding Andrew's recovery.

I'm passionate about their mission, and urge you to give generously to their cause. We a grateful for everything they gave to help us, please support this mission so kids like ours can feel human and cared for while in hospital.