Story 25 August 2022

Hayley's Story

Hayley and her family put on a Liverversary Quiz and Cake to raise money for King's College Hospital Charity. 
Hayley, her husband Jason and Mabel

In April 2021, aged 32, Hayley's husband fell suddenly ill with a very mysterious illness. They had just moved into their first family home with their seven-month-old baby, Mabel. Within 2 months, his body had attacked his liver to the point where his life was in danger. He had a rare form of autoimmune hepatitis. He was transferred to King's and was soon listed for an emergency liver transplant - this was his only hope of survival. On June 7th, at around midnight he was taken down for surgery and, incredibly, his life was saved. 

 

 

There have been some bumps in the road, but the reality is that Hayley's husband would not be here to watch their baby Mabel blossom into the funny, inquisitive, affectionate character that she is without the incredible research, skills and care of the staff at King's and of course, the remarkable gift of his donor. 

 

 

Jason is now back at work part-time as a Maths teacher and the family are enjoying the summer holidays together as a 3. It has been a rollercoaster of a ride, but they are eternally grateful to be together. 

 

 

To commemorate his first year post-transplant, his second chance of a life he wouldn't have had, Jason and Hayley knew they wanted to do something to help ensure someone else's Mummy or Daddy, Granny or Grandad, son or daughter could be saved by the amazing team at King's. For every laugh, cuddle and precious moment they get together, they wanted to give meaningful thanks. 

 

 

Hayley and Jason decided to hold a quiz and afternoon tea, including a raffle. They invited friends, family and colleagues to buy tickets and those who liked to bake were encouraged to bring a cake to share. Others bought sweet treats to contribute to the afternoon tea. They had a life-themed music round (songs with "life" in the title); the liver round (answers always included letters from the word "liver") and a picture round where teams had to identify famous doctors and nurses. There were some lovely raffle prizes donated by various businesses and many raffle tickets were sold on the day. There was even a fun game of "pin the liver on the body" for a prize. Around 50-60 people came. 

"Together with our online donations, we raised £1005! We're really proud of this and immensely grateful to all that helped to make it a success." - Hayley

Hayley and Jason are aiming to hold an event every summer to give thanks for yet another precious year of life. 

Jason and Mabel spending quality family time together

Organise your own fundraising event for King's College Hospital Charity

 

Take on your own fundraising event and do something amazing for patients in the hospitals we support. Whatever you decide to take part in, you'll be making a real difference to the lives of patients and their families.

 

Fundraise for King's