I want to help a friend or family member going through transplant

Before a family stays at the hospital (assessment)

Assessment can mean staying in Newcastle upon Tyne for up to 3 days. If you know somebody coming for assessment, one of the best things you can do right now is to be steady, patient, and present. Your loved ones may be overwhelmed, tired, and full of questions!

Offering to look after siblings is a great way to support them while they stay in Newcastle Upon Tyne during the assessment period.

They might not always know what they need, so simply offering quiet support, helping with practical tasks (like travel, meals, or looking after siblings), or even just listening can make a huge difference. Remind them they’re not alone, encourage them to use the support services available, and if possible, help with organising logistics or accommodation. Above all, just be there!

When a family stays at hospital

It can be overwhelming for families staying on the ward to constantly update people, so be patient if you don't get regular updates. A group chat often works better with a daily update.

Preparing for their return home

As patients usually need to continue isolation when they return home - some families and friends take it upon themselves to make an extra special environment for the child's return. One family created a games room and the other tidied and cleaned top to bottom, another decorated their bedroom in ninja style!

When a family returns home

Returning home can be overwhelming and life wont be back to normal straight away. Most families will still need to isolate, so be aware of this and don't expect to see them out in busy places. As a family member or friend, your support can make all the difference. Here’s what to know, and how you can help.

What’s happening?

• The child has moved from red isolation in hospital to purple isolation at hotel or half way house, now to being back at home, but they’re still very vulnerable.

• The parents are now in charge of central line care, medications, and hygiene, all while managing recovery, emotions, and their own daily life.

What you can do:

• Be calm, kind, and flexible. Offer support, not pressure.

• Offer practical help like cleaning, shopping, or school runs for siblings.

• Ask how they’re doing, not just how the child is.

• If you’ve got a cold or bug, stay far away even mild infections can be dangerous.

• Respect their rules around food, visitors, and hygiene.

• Avoid bringing pets, young children, or unexpected guests. Some families opt for closed window visits

• Don’t be offended if they cancel last minute, their priority is keeping the child safe.

• If you’re unsure about anything, just ask the family!

This is a big adjustment, but your support helps massively

Fundraising

Fundraising, and raising awareness, is a great way to give back. We rely on fundraising to provide toys and activities for the children, medical equipment, welcome packs and food for the family room cupboards. We will help however we can if you would like to fundraise for us.

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  Cake and samosas, anyone?

  A huge thank you to TVSSCS who presented bone marrow transplant superhero Ivy with a cheque for an amazing £635 for the Bubble Foundation! They worked hard to raise...

  Read more: Cake and samosas, anyone?
• 

  Family raises £15,000 with Black Tie Ball

  A huge thank you to Harriett, from Acton Bridge near Northwich, and her parents Helen Mylott and Chris Platt who raised £15,000 for the Bubble Foundation with their...

  Read more: Family raises £15,000 with Black Tie Ball

• Corporate Giving

  Current Needs Prizes for our raffles and tombola - get in touch for ideas. Sign up a team for our Steptember challenge! Boost your team's wellbeing and spark some...

  Read more: Corporate Giving