Sefton terminally ill boy, 10, granted final wish to meet Santa

Sefton terminally ill boy, 10, granted final wish to meet Santa

A touching wish from a terminally ill boy to see Santa one last time was fulfilled thanks to a remarkable response to a social media plea made by his mother. Ten-year-old Jacob, who lives in Sefton, Merseyside, suffers from a rare metabolic disorder called non-ketotic hyperglycinemia. As his health has deteriorated, he is now receiving end-of-life care.

Jacob’s mother, Gemma, reached out on local Facebook groups asking for someone to step in as Santa and visit their home in Netherton, allowing her son to experience a final Christmas moment. The community’s reaction was overwhelming, with many people offering to help, and before long a visit was organized to the family home. Gemma, who expressed surprise and gratitude, said, “It was amazing. I didn’t expect it.”

The diagnosis came when Jacob was just a few days old, and over time he also developed gastrointestinal dystonia, a severe condition linked to neurological impairment. Recently, his parents, Gemma and Kevin, were informed that there were no further treatment options for him. They described their feelings as “numb and heartbroken” while their son, who has two brothers named Joseph (two years old) and Joel (twelve years old), has been sleeping more frequently. Plans for a family trip to see Santa were cancelled due to Jacob’s declining condition.

Gemma fondly described Jacob as a cheerful and mischievous boy who has brought immense joy to their family. She hoped that this last encounter with Santa would not only please Jacob but also help create precious memories for him and his brothers before he transitions to what she called his “forever home.” After the visit, Gemma expressed deep thanks, stating, “Thank you to Paula Blair at Kirkby’s Christmas Crusade and AC Mascots for coming and making such a hard time bearable.” She also praised the hospice’s palliative care team for their incredible support and guidance throughout the difficult journey.

Jacob, a great fan of the Disney film Moana, already had a special treat arranged by his care team, with someone coming to sing songs from the movie for him. Reflecting on the overwhelming kindness that followed her Facebook appeal, Gemma shared the heartfelt message she posted online: “My wish is for my boys to make as many memories as they can together as time is precious as their middle brother is terminally ill.

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More