Imagine a 10-year-old battling liver cancer, yet instead of succumbing to despair, she channels her own struggles into a mission to brighten the lives of other sick children. This is the inspiring story of Jasmine, a young girl from Rhyl, Denbighshire, who has turned her personal battle into a beacon of hope. Diagnosed with liver sarcoma in November 2023, Jasmine has endured countless hospital stays, chemotherapy sessions, and surgeries. Yet, it was during these challenging times that the idea for Jazzy’s Gestures was born—a charity dedicated to gifting sick children unforgettable days out, free from financial worries.
But here’s where it gets truly remarkable: Jasmine noticed that many charities offer limited options, often tied to specific places or times. Determined to make a difference, she decided her charity would empower children to choose their own adventures. With the help of her mum, Danielle, and a circle of supportive friends, Jazzy’s Gestures has already raised over £20,000, providing 15 families with experiences like aquarium visits, theme park trips, zip-lining, and even afternoon tea. And this is the part most people miss: Jasmine’s charity isn’t just about the outings—it’s about tailoring experiences to suit each child’s unique needs, including those who are immunocompromised, ensuring they can create cherished memories safely.
Jasmine’s journey hasn’t been easy. From May to July this year, she faced seven hospital admissions for heart failure, often confined to her bed for days at a time. Danielle recalls how her daughter would grow emotional after long stretches in hospital, missing out on family outings and the simple joys of childhood. This raises a thought-provoking question: How can we better support children facing long-term illnesses to maintain a sense of normalcy and joy? Jasmine’s answer is clear: by giving them something to look forward to—a day that’s entirely theirs.
Ellen Moseley, Jasmine’s specialist paediatric oncology nurse, describes her as ‘remarkable,’ ‘bright,’ and ‘happy,’ despite her illness. Moseley praises Jazzy’s Gestures for its thoughtful approach, emphasizing the importance of family time and personalized experiences. But here’s a controversial take: While many charities focus on medical research or direct financial aid, Jasmine’s focus on creating joyful experiences highlights a often overlooked aspect of healing—the power of happiness and hope.
Today, Jasmine continues her chemotherapy at home while attending school part-time and expanding her charity’s reach. She’s now crafting activity bags tailored to children’s interests to keep them entertained during hospital visits. Next on her agenda? Christmas hampers for families in need. ‘We’re trying to make it a bit fun for them,’ she says with a smile. ‘It’s nice to help.’
What do you think? Is Jasmine’s approach to supporting sick children something more charities should adopt? Or should the focus remain primarily on medical solutions? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this inspiring conversation going!