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This episode of Inspired Voices features Jo and Shaun Keeling, who have been Alder Hey fundraisers for over seven years in memory of their daughter Poppy, who was cared for at Alder Hey.
Poppy sadly passed away at four days old, after being born with a rare condition called Cloacal malformation which affects 1 in 50,000 newborns. Jo and Shaun knew they had to do something to give back to Alder Hey for giving them time with their daughter. In memory of Poppy, they set up the ‘Poppy Rocket Challenge’, where they take part in regular fundraising events and challenges to raise vital funds for Alder Hey, including their annual Moel Famau climb.
Over the past 7 years they have raised over £20,000 to date, thanks to their commitment to making a difference for other families in their position. Jo and Shaun’s passion and commitment to honouring Poppy’s memory shines through in this honest and heartfelt chat.
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*Episodes of Inspired Voices may contains references to medical procedures and could be upsetting to some listeners*

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In this week’s episode of Inspired Voices, Cath and Adam welcome John and Donna Connett to the studio where they discuss their family’s inspiring story and the incredible fundraising efforts they have achieved over the past decade.
John and Donna’s son Lewis was born with Apert syndrome, a rare genetic disorder which affects around 1 in every 65,000 newborns. The condition fuses bones together and is characterised by malformations of the skull, face, hands and feet. After noticing issues after Lewis’ birth, he was referred to Alder Hey, with the family travelling from their home in Yorkshire. Over the past 11 years, Lewis has bravely faced 20 operations and numerous appointments and procedures, becoming a much-loved member of the Alder Hey family. He, along with his family has appeared in Alder Hey Children’s Charity’s annual Matalan pyjama campaign, and Lewis was even chosen to present Queen Elizabeth II with a bouquet of flowers when she officially opened Alder Hey in 2016.
Over the past ten years, John, Donna, Lewis, and Lewis' elder brother Hayden have formed ‘Team Lewis Challenges’, and alongside their wider family and friends have taken on numerous challenges and fundraising events, raising an astonishing sum that currently stands at over £67,000. In this podcast, John and Donna speak openly about what inspires them to fundraise for Alder Hey and why others should get involved in fundraising.
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*Episodes of Inspired Voices may feature references to medical procedures

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In this episode of the Inspired Voices podcast, Cath and Adam speak to The Batt family, as Karen and Phil share their incredible journey through daughter Betty’s early and challenging life. Born over four months premature and weighing just 650 grams, Betty faced numerous life-threatening obstacles, including multiple surgeries, infections, and the need for a tracheostomy. Despite these overwhelming challenges, Betty's resilience and the unwavering support of her family and the dedicated medical team at Alder Hey have been nothing short of extraordinary. After 13 months in hospital, Betty finally went home to her siblings, Stanley and Martha.
Phil and Karen discuss the emotional and practical aspects of their journey, including the importance of family-integrated care in neonatal units, and their support of Alder Hey Children’s Charity’s Surgical Neonatal Appeal which helped to fund Family Integrated Care Rooms in Alder Hey’s upcoming Surgical Neonatal Unit, ensuring other families can stay together in a private and supportive environment. Having taken part in Alder Hey’s annual Matalan campaign and also featured as the honorary 41st runner at the Grand National over the years, Karen and Phil also highlight Betty’s remarkable spirit and the joy she brings to those around her. Through this podcast, they offer a deeply moving and hopeful perspective on the power of family, medical care, and community support in the face of adversity.
Episodes on Inspired Voices may contain brief details of medical procedures.

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In this heartfelt episode of Inspired Voices, we are joined by Emma Weaver, whose family has been supporting Alder Hey since 2014 in memory of her daughter, Georgie. After Georgie was born with a rare condition, tracheal agenesis, she was transferred to Alder Hey for care. Although she sadly passed away at just five days old, the incredible support from the hospital staff inspired Emma and her family to give back.
Emma shares how her eldest daughter, Jess, made a promise to ensure Georgie’s name would be remembered and started fundraising at just six years old. From bike rides to the famous ‘mile of pennies’ campaign, Jess, and now her younger sister Iris, have continued to make a huge impact. Their efforts have raised nearly £38,000, supporting Alder Hey’s bereavement centre and other vital services.
This episode captures the power of family, resilience, and the importance of turning grief into a force for good. Emma reflects on their journey, the recognition Jess has received, including the British Citizen Youth Award, and the quirky fundraising ideas that continue to inspire the community.
Episodes of Inspired Voices may contain references to which some listeners may find upsetting.

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The Three Little Pigs
Story Time! Part of the Stories@AlderHey strand.
Actor and Alder Hey supporter Chris Mason performs the Three Little Pigs with humour and just a touch of scouse swagger!
Please enjoy the podcast and consider a donation to Alder Hey!

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