Harper was born prematurely at 35 weeks, weighing just 3.5lb. From the beginning, there were quiet concerns—an unspoken sense that something wasn’t quite right. Throughout the pregnancy, everything had appeared to go smoothly, and her parents were reassured time and time again that she was simply a small baby, with nothing to worry about. But at a growth scan just before 35 weeks, it became clear that Harper was much smaller than expected. She needed to be delivered urgently.

After she was born, some subtle physical signs raised questions about a possible genetic condition. Feeding was a struggle right from day one, and she required an NG tube. Harper also failed her newborn hearing test, which led to a series of follow-up appointments. She spent five long weeks in the NICU before she was finally able to go home—still fragile, but surrounded by love and care.

When Harper turned one, her family received the diagnosis: an extremely rare syndrome, with only around 32 known cases worldwide. It was a moment of clarity, but also the beginning of a journey filled with uncertainty. With so little information available, every day brought new questions and few answers.

Harper’s family discovered Zoe’s Place when she was around two years old. They had been enjoying a day out at the zoo when they noticed another family nearby—relaxed, happy, and supported in a way that caught their attention. At first, the idea of a hospice didn’t feel right to Harper’s parents. Like many, they associated the word with something final, something sorrowful. But after visiting Zoe’s, everything changed.

From the moment they stepped through the doors, Harper’s family realised that Zoe’s Place was something entirely different: a haven of love, play, and gentle, essential support. Harper quickly fell in love with the hospice. She beams with joy when she’s in the sensory room, swinging in the garden breeze, or wrapped up in endless cuddles from the care team.

For her parents, Zoe’s Place became a lifeline. They hadn’t realised how exhausted they’d become—how much they were carrying, every single day. Knowing Harper is safe, smiling, and cherished gives them the space they need to rest and recharge, without guilt or fear.

Now, Zoe’s Place is woven into the fabric of their lives. Harper’s visits bring laughter, light, and relief. And for her family, Zoe’s is not just a hospice—it’s a community they didn’t know they needed, and now couldn’t imagine being without.