Alfie's Story

Alfie is a vibrant, cheeky young boy living with Pallister-Killian Syndrome (PKS). He has a care package that includes overnight care five nights a week, provided by a team of dedicated paediatric care assistants.

overnight care

Overnight care for children

Overnight home care is particularly important for children with disabilities, like Alfie, who require constant monitoring. In Alfie’s case, his care plan is designed to support him with his diagnosis of Pallister-Killian Syndrome and autonomic dysfunction.

Paediatric healthcare assistants manage Alfie’s clinical needs overnight, five nights a week. They monitor his breathing, manage seizures, and administer any medications he needs to be comfortable.

Our care team are trained to handle Alfie’s clinical needs with the person-centred approach that he, and the whole family deserve. With consistent long-term overnight care, Heidi can sleep peacefully knowing Alfie is in safe hands.

Overnight care

How overnight care supports families

Alfie’s overnight care does more than just keep him safe through the night—it has brought more cheeky smiles, belly laughs, and a reassuring sense of stability.

The whole family’s well-being has improved since benefiting from a good night’s sleep. In the morning, Heidi can show up as her happiest self for Alfie after a restful night, feeling like “Heidi again” and not like a “zombie.”

Meanwhile, Alfie’s care team has already finished his wake-up routine, met his morning care needs, and filled the morning with laughter (sometimes while listening to his favourite drum and bass tracks!) He’s all smiles, ready to see his mum.

With the support of overnight care, Heidi now carves out time for herself, offering her much-needed respite. The care package has lightened the load for the family, reducing feelings of overwhelm and burnout. It’s given them the energy to spend more quality positive time together, which is essential for families who provide the daily care that children with complex needs require.

Aflie & his army

Raising awareness of PKS

Heidi and Aflie’s family and friends are incredibly passionate about raising awareness of Pallister-Killian Syndrome and giving back to the charities and hospitals that have supported them.

They understand the highs and lows of caring for a child with complex needs, and this fuels their drive to give back to children and their families who need a little extra cheer. Heidi and her clan are regular faces on the Rainbow Ward, supporting East Kent Hospitals Charity by arranging Christmas goodie bag drops, and princess visits.

Heidi dedicates her time and energy to uplifting families in need, and fundraising for PKS UK, hospitals, and domestic violence charities. Through their Alfie & His Army Facebook page, they share Alfie’s genetic journey and offer support to other parents affected by PKS.

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