Brave Sophia is granted a wish

By kstyan

A WISH has come true for a brave four-year-old living with a rare disorder.

Sophia Oliver, who has undergone numerous operations, was given her wish of a holiday in Centre Parks by charity Rays of Sunshine.

"She was nominated by the doctors at the Royal London," said mum Sarah Oliver. "She sees the adverts for Centre Parks on the TV and keeps saying I want to do that."

Sophia, from The Meades , Dormansland, was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome in January, a disorder which makes it uncomfortable to walk and causes her joints to click.

A different medical problem meant the four-year-old had to have her bowel and colon removed and now wears a colostomy bag.

"She is very cute and really inspirational, which is why I think the hospital nominated her for a wish," said Mrs Oliver. "She never complains and is a very happy little girl. The doctor said it is because all she knows is pain, illness and medical intervention."

Sophia has had to undergo a number of operations in her short lifetime, the most recent took four hours. She relies on help from her mum and brothers Ben, 21, and Harry, 12, and sister Georgina, 18.

"They have been brilliant," said Mrs Oliver, who had to give up her job to become Sophia's full time carer.

"They have really helped me, looking after her and looking after each other when we have been in hospital in London."

Sophia attends All Kids Nursery at East Court, East Grinstead, which the mum said has been brilliant.

"It is great for Sophia because she lives in a adult world and we want her to play and be like other children," said Sarah. "When she is well she goes there and they have been absolutely fantastic."

As well as the holiday in October, the mother and daughter will be able to meet other youngsters with similar medical problems in November thanks to the charity Breakaway.

Rays of Sunshine Children's Charity relies on donations to grant wishes to children with serious or life-threatening illnesses between the ages of three to 18.

For more information about the charity visit www.raysofsunshine.org.uk