DORIS

At just 4 years old, Doris’s life has been transformed thanks to WellChild’s Helping Hands programme and the dedicated efforts of a compassionate and hard-working team from Hilti. Doris’ family hoped for a day that Doris could play outside safely with her family, thanks their brand new garden, that dream is now a reality.

Before our team set to work, the family’s garden was uneven and boggy in places, which made wheelchair access difficult. Doris couldn’t be out there safely, and there was nowhere comfortable for her to lie down or explore.

Doris’s family share the impact their new garden is having on family life. “Words cannot express how grateful we are. We are loving the garden and always will.

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Doris loves the feel of the artificial grass. She loves stroking it and happily enjoys rolling on it. She also loves her sensory wall and mirror. She loves when her big sister plays silly games with her. It always makes her smile."

Doris' mum

Doris enjoying the feel of the grass in her new garden
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"Since having our garden done we have been able to spend many days and hours outside. Doris can be in her chair
and walker due to it being smooth and level. She loves water play more than anything and it’s meant she can play
without getting muddy and her equipment ruined. We can all comfortably lay on the artificial grass with Doris and she
is so happy. Doris has had bad seizures recently and sitting in the sun has always calmed her."

Doris' mum

Beginning the project

Volunteers from Hilti worked incredibly hard in just two days to create a safe and accessible outdoor space for Doris to enjoy and spend quality time in. They began by clearing and leveling the rough, uneven ground. Once leveled, they built a large deck frame and fitted it in place. A ramp was assembled leading up to an area of decking and artificial grass. A raised planter was constructed and filled with sensory flowers. They then added a chalkboard and mirror, creating lots of sensory stimulation for Doris.

The finished result

These changes will have a huge impact on home life for Doris and her family, providing a much-needed safe and engaging space. The garden is now a secure environment where Doris can create wonderful memories, build up her strength, and foster greater independence. This new outdoor area will allow her to explore, play, and develop essential skills, all while enjoying quality time with her family in a setting designed specifically for her needs.
Doris enjoying the mirror in her new sensory garden
The WellChild and Hilti team who transformed the family's garden

For more inspiring stories like Doris'...

Meet more of the families we have supported through our Helping Hands programme.

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