A NURSERY in Coventry has won a national award for welcoming with open arms a two-year-old with a devastating rare condition.
Tiddlers Nursery has been crowned Educational Professional of the Year at the Little Moments Matter Awards, run by charity Dravet Syndrome UK.
The awards celebrate professionals who have made a profound difference to the lives of families affected by the condition.
Dravet Syndrome is a severe form of epilepsy requiring 24/7 care, which includes frequent seizures, intellectual disability and a range of difficulties including issues with speech, language, mobility, behaviour, eating and sleep.
Tiddlers Nursery was nominated by Heidi Nicholson for going above and beyond for their two year-old son Dougie.
The nursery took him on after Heidi had struggled to place Douglas at another nursery due to his complex needs.
Heidi said: “My son was diagnosed with Dravet two months before starting nursery. The nursery he was meant to start at kept holding off and eventually, after three months, said they would not take him.
“In came Tiddlers Nursery, and without hesitation they said they could accommodate him, got the whole staff trained and were so welcoming and accepting of Dougie.
“Having a nursery which is more than willing to support, guide and understand is huge. They treat him like every other child and he is happy, safe, and developing brilliantly there.”
Michelle Wolstenholme, Co Owner and Manager at Tiddlers, said she and her staff were honoured to receive the award.
She said: “Our whole team feels privileged to support Heidi and her family as they navigate the ups and downs of this complex condition.
“We have learnt so much from them – not just about Dravet Syndrome, but also about resilience and love – and it is a joy having Dougie in our nursery group.”
Galia Wilson, Chair of Trustees at Dravet Syndrome UK, said the Little Moments Matter Awards aimed to shine a light on inspiring professionals whose efforts help families face the daily challenges of Dravet Syndrome with hope and strength.
She added: “Tiddlers Nursery really stepped up for Heidi and her family, showing that even in the toughest circumstances, it’s the little moments of care, compassion and understanding that can make the biggest difference.
“We hope that Tiddlers – and, indeed, all our finalists – know the life-changing impact their support has made to the quality of life of families affected by this very complex condition.”
Visit www.dravet.org.uk for more information about Dravet Syndrome.
