Harvey’s story

Four-year-old Harvey Berrisford, of Cartmel, Cumbria, passed away in January 2024.

His dad, Jamie, tells his story.

“When Vicky was pregnant with Harvey, we knew there were a few complications. But when he was born, it became clear that there were a lot more issues than anticipated. In fact, Harvey was still considered undiagnosed when he passed away.

“There weren’t many people who were trained to look after Harvey and he needed someone with him all the time.

“We were first introduced to Derian House through our community nurse. We began by using the hospice for respite breaks – giving us chance to spend more quality time with our children and each other.

“You never want to give your child to someone else to look after, but the feeling of calm and the trust we had in Derian since our first visit was overwhelming. There was so much love. We knew it would be fully safe and that Harvey would be well looked after.

“Derian has been huge for us, it’s an amazing place. We knew if Harvey went to Derian that we would have no worries and that he would be spoilt and have an amazing time. Derian gives families that.

“We were lucky to go on a Derian Holiday to Ribby Hall Village and we all went swimming every day. It was incredible to have that time with Harvey and with our family. It was a weight off our minds that we were able to have that holiday time with him – to relax and do things together. All my family came up to see us while we were there.

“When Harvey passed away, we used a Sunflower Room and to spend that extra time with him meant the world to us. Derian House offered myself and the girls a flat for the week, supporting us and feeding us during our time there.

“When Harvey died, it was very traumatic – I was alone with him,” continued Jamie.

“Only recently I went to the Derian dads bereavement group meetings. It was such a relaxed setting and you don’t have to talk if you don’t feel like it. Everyone is so welcoming and its nice to get to know dads who are in the same situation you are. It’s also comforting to know that even though your child is no longer using Derian’s services, that you’re still part of the family. That still means a lot to me.”