When the family reflected on Livvy’s journey, a journey that became their new normal as hospital days turned into weeks, they realised they wanted to do something meaningful to give back to Latch and support other families facing the same unimaginable challenges. Ideas were shared, memories were exchanged, and with relatives who had taken part in charity walks before, a coastal walk felt like the perfect starting point for their first fundraiser. As Rhian wanted to give back in her own way to the family, she took the lead on organising the event, and the whole family is deeply grateful.
Reflecting on why the walk mattered so much, the family shared, “Make your charity day or fundraiser be about what is important to you, and what mirrors your values and beliefs. Ours is family, not just what Livvy has been through, but also the exciting future she has ahead, and the strength and resilience she has shown this year that will take her to reach her goals and dreams.”
“From the moment Livvy was admitted, Latch supported her and her immediate family through every step of the journey,” the family shared. “We always knew it would be the charity we wanted to give back to, even though nothing will ever be enough to thank Latch for everything they have done.”
Livvy was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia just three days after Christmas, which the family described as devastating, heart-breaking news that changed everything. At what Rhian described as “the worst time imaginable,” Latch became a lifeline, and the family knew they wanted to raise money for the charity supporting Livvy and her loved ones.
Hoping to inspire anyone thinking of putting together a fundraiser, the family’s advice is: “Don't be put off by the paperwork — the day itself together as a family and the amount we've raised is worth it all, a hundred times over. What impressed our family the most was how many people came together to support Latch & Livvy’s walk - ‘Walking for Latch and every step with Livvy’ was our go fund me page & event”.
The charity walk had a goal of £2,500, but the family and the community around them raised above and beyond this original target. Rhian said, “We are totally blown away by the generosity of local people who have donated to our GoFundMe event page. We never imagined we could raise as much as we did. Part way through we increased our target to £7,000 and thought that would be incredible, so we can never thank everyone enough for taking us past £14,000. It’s incredible.”
“After experiencing our successful walk, we do have bigger ideas for the next event and have learnt how we can involve more local businesses next time.” Rhian said. “It’s been a learning curve, but such a wonderful experience, we’re excited for what we can achieve next time.” Her advice to anyone considering a fundraiser is simple: “Make it personal and personable. Make it open and honest so people know exactly what their donation will support. Keep your donation page updated; people will want to follow your story and success. Share the positives, and share photos of your family so that you are a face, you are real just like their family.”
The family also took the fundraiser offline. “Paper sponsor forms were popular, especially in workplaces, exercise classes, and clubs. Don’t assume everyone can donate online,” Rhian explained. “Word of mouth was powerful too; we had friends of friends donate because they were touched by our story.” Bucket collecting also proved surprisingly successful. “We questioned if it would be worthwhile in a cashless society, but we raised £277 in 90 minutes! Any amount helps, reassure people of that.”
The family encourages anyone thinking of fundraising for Latch to give it a go. “There is something special about having your nearest and dearest together as a team. I believe that’s what made our fundraiser so successful.”
Livvy’s journey shows the power of community; whether that’s organising a walk, supporting a family through unimaginable challenges, or celebrating a child who has overcome so much with strength and resilience.
