Edward’s Story

Meet 14-year-old Edward!
Edward is a keen sportsman and enjoys playing rugby and football outside of school. Edward loves acting, having performed in Cheshire Youth Pantomime Society’s Pantomimes Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 2019 and Aladdin in 2020.
Edward was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in March 2019. Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that may affect any segment of the gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms often include abdominal pain, fever, abdominal distension, and weight loss.
Edward’s symptoms started in September 2018 when he began his first year of high school. Although his diagnosis was made relatively quickly, he has had 3 stays in hospital as various medications have not worked for him and caused other painful side effects.
Edward is now on weekly leg injections and monthly infusions but sadly had another flare up on returning to school in September 2020. He is very bravely dealing with the pain so that he does not miss out on attending school.
Edward’s VIP Experience
On Wednesday 19th February 2020 Edward and his mum, Christelle were invited to enjoy a VIP experience at the Etihad Stadium to watch Manchester City play West Ham United. Following a generous box donation, The Barrie Wells Trust contacted hospitals across the North West about the event, including Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity, who nominated Edward.
Upon arriving at the box, Edward and his mum Christelle were greeted by their Barrie Wells Trust hosts, Jon and Sue, who were on hand to ensure Edward and the other Box4Kids guests had the best experience.
‘The venue and the food were amazing’ said Edward. ‘We had a great view of the pitch and I absolutely loved the comfy posh seats.’

Mum Christelle added, ‘It was great to see Edward strike up a friendship with another child who was there on the day, as they talked openly together about their symptoms and medications. We really enjoyed our day and the very relaxed company of the hosts and appreciated being able to talk with the other families who have been dealing with long term conditions.’
We are so appreciative of the kindness from Bridgepoint who donated their executive box on this occasion. They have very kindly been supporting the Trust’s Box4Kids initiative since 2016. Without donations from our wonderful box holders, we would not be able to provide such important and memorable experiences to children like Edward. If you are a box holder and have any events where your box might be empty, then please consider donating it to the Trust to help make even more special memories for deserving children.