Latest news with #Alaw
North Wales Chronicle
02-06-2025
- General
- North Wales Chronicle
Anglesey: Girl, 4, inspires Tŷ Gobaith hospice campaign
Alaw Evan, from Llanfairpwll, features in a summer appeal for Tŷ Gobaith children's hospice, which has raised more than £60,000 in just a few weeks. Alaw's face has appeared on the front of envelopes delivered to 32,000 homes since the start of May, with her parents, Ffion and Barry, sharing their story. Ffion said: "Those teeny tiny steps where Alaw is doing something really well, something we never thought we would see. Alaw's face has appeared on the front of envelopes delivered to 32,000 homes since the start of May (Image: Russell Davies Photography) "Alaw isn't able to sit up unaided, she doesn't crawl, she doesn't walk, she doesn't stand without the support of a frame but she has the most contagious giggle ever." Alaw was born on Valentine's Day and sustained a brain injury, due to lack of oxygen, after her mother developed HELLP syndrome, a rare and life-threatening pregnancy condition. Ffion was not able to meet her Alaw until five days after giving birth. Barry said: "They were both fighting for their lives and we were being told to expect the worst. READ MORE: Official opening event is held for a new basketball court on Anglesey Gwynedd museum re-opens following £280,000 makeover "But Alaw was a little fighter, and after five days Ffion was able to have her bed wheeled to Neonatal Intensive Care to meet her too." Alaw was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and dystonia. After spending six months in Alder Hey Hospital, a paediatrician recommended the family consider respite care at Tŷ Gobaith. Ffion said: "We went to visit in springtime last year and I remember stepping outside in the car park and just feeling completely overwhelmed by how beautiful the setting was." Mr Evan recently raised money for the hospice by abseiling down the Anglesey Column (Image: Supplied) She added: "We went inside and everybody was making a fuss of Alaw and she was loving it. "The first time we left her overnight was massive for us but it felt like a safe place and I'm not just talking about the nurses, I'm talking about the housekeepers and the kitchen staff and how everybody knows everything that is going on there and how everyone is involved in Alaw's care like one big family." Barry recently raised money for the hospice by abseiling down the Anglesey Column on May 17. He said: "We are so excited about this next chapter in our lives where we can just be parents to Alaw and our baby Caio, and with the help of Tŷ Gobaith that is happening more and more often." You can find out more about Alaw's campaign by visiting
Wales Online
02-06-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
Little Alaw can't sit, crawl or walk but she's got something that melts everyone's hearts
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info From the moment she was born, Alaw Evans has been a "little fighter". When mum Ffion developed a rare pregnancy condition, a lack of oxygen left her with a catastrophic brain injury. After the birth, on Valentine's Day, dad Barry was warned both his wife and daughter might not survive. Alaw was placed into neonatal intensive care and it was five days before Ffion was well enough to be wheeled to the unit to meet her. Even when the pair were allowed home to Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, Alaw's battles were only just starting. When she was almost two-years-old, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a muscle spasm condition called dystonia. Since then Alaw, now aged four, has fought back, her progress charted in what Ffion calls 'inchstones' – the miniature version of milestones. 'Our inchstones are what we call those little moments that for us are everything,' said Ffion. 'Those teeny tiny steps where Alaw is doing something really well, something we never thought we would see. 'Alaw isn't able to sit up unaided, she doesn't crawl, she doesn't walk and she doesn't stand without the support of a frame – but she has the most contagious giggle ever! 'She loves going on the swings, being pampered and having her curls brushed, and she loves to go swimming with the physios – last time she was so relaxed she giggled non-stop in the pool and all the way home too. For us these things are all massive.' Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now Getting to this stage has been tough. In late pregnancy Ffion developed a condition called HELLP syndrome – this stands for (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets). Occurring in fewer than 1% of pregnancies, it's a life-threatening pregnancy complication usually considered a variant of preeclampsia. 'They were both fighting for their lives,' recalled Barry. 'We were being told to expect the worst. The obstetrician told us it can very often be fatal for both mum and baby, so we were extremely lucky.' Being allowed to return home was a doubled-edged sword: as the Covid pandemic was still raging, the family began to feel increasingly isolated. Alaw was often unsettled, crying incessantly and making it difficult to leave the house. With Barry needing to go to work, Ffion was up with Alaw every night. 'I was so exhausted during the day I couldn't look after her,' she recalled. 'So my mum had to come in and help. I was virtually nocturnal for those first three years and we just hit rock bottom.' When Alaw was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, she spent six months in Liverpool's Alder Hey Hospital to manage her condition and to relieve her constant pain. It was at this point a paediatrician suggested the family consider a respite stay at the Tŷ Gobaith children's hospice near Conwy town. From the moment the family arrived at the centre, in the spring sunshine, they were made to feel at ease. Ffion's first impression was just how beautiful the setting was. 'We went inside and everybody was making a fuss of Alaw and she was loving it,' she said. 'We were offered a cup of tea and a piece of banoffee pie and invited to sit down. Someone said, 'We'll take Alaw' - that was scary because we'd never left her with someone else as she is so medically complex. No one knew her like I knew her. 'The first time we left her overnight was massive for us but it felt like a safe place and I'm not just talking about the nurses, I'm talking about the housekeepers and the kitchen staff and how everybody knows everything that is going on there and how everyone is involved in Alaw's care like one big family. "I think they are the only people in the world who really understand what being parents to a medically complex child is all about. 'For instance the social work team is amazing and point you in the right direction if you need something. I don't have the time to do nice things such as searching for accessible family holidays we can take Alaw on, but they did that and sent me the links.' In recent weeks Alaw's face has featured on the cover of envelopes that have landed on 32,000 doormats. These contain information about Tŷ Gobaith's summer campaign, which in just a few short weeks has already raised more than £60,000. Barry has played his part, abseilling down the Anglesey Column to raise money on behalf of Alaw, who he calls his "little fighter". A new chapter has now opened for the family with the arrival of a baby boy, Caio. Continued help from the charity means Barry and Ffion are better able to focus their energies on their children. She added: 'Without Tŷ Gobaith, life would be like it was before – we would be exhausted and at rock bottom, and that isn't a nice place to be. Respite is giving us that chance to have a breather. 'When Alaw is at Ty Gobaith we get to slow down and make sure that we don't reach burn out like we used to. That makes us better parents.' Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox To support Alaw's campaign, and help local children with life-threatening conditions, there's more information on the Hope House website. Find family activities near you
North Wales Live
02-06-2025
- Health
- North Wales Live
Little Alaw can't sit, crawl or walk but she's got something that melts everyone's hearts
From the moment she was born, Alaw Evans has been a "little fighter". When mum Ffion developed a rare pregnancy condition, a lack of oxygen left her with a catastrophic brain injury. After the birth, on Valentine's Day, dad Barry was warned both his wife and daughter might not survive. Alaw was placed into neonatal intensive care and it was five days before Ffion was well enough to be wheeled to the unit to meet her. Even when the pair were allowed home to Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, Alaw's battles were only just starting. When she was almost two-years-old, she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and a muscle spasm condition called dystonia. Since then Alaw, now aged four, has fought back, her progress charted in what Ffion calls 'inchstones' – the miniature version of milestones. 'Our inchstones are what we call those little moments that for us are everything,' said Ffion. 'Those teeny tiny steps where Alaw is doing something really well, something we never thought we would see. 'Alaw isn't able to sit up unaided, she doesn't crawl, she doesn't walk and she doesn't stand without the support of a frame – but she has the most contagious giggle ever! 'She loves going on the swings, being pampered and having her curls brushed, and she loves to go swimming with the physios – last time she was so relaxed she giggled non-stop in the pool and all the way home too. For us these things are all massive.' Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now Getting to this stage has been tough. In late pregnancy Ffion developed a condition called HELLP syndrome – this stands for (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets). Occurring in fewer than 1% of pregnancies, it's a life-threatening pregnancy complication usually considered a variant of preeclampsia. 'They were both fighting for their lives,' recalled Barry. 'We were being told to expect the worst. The obstetrician told us it can very often be fatal for both mum and baby, so we were extremely lucky.' Being allowed to return home was a doubled-edged sword: as the Covid pandemic was still raging, the family began to feel increasingly isolated. Alaw was often unsettled, crying incessantly and making it difficult to leave the house. With Barry needing to go to work, Ffion was up with Alaw every night. 'I was so exhausted during the day I couldn't look after her,' she recalled. 'So my mum had to come in and help. I was virtually nocturnal for those first three years and we just hit rock bottom.' When Alaw was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, she spent six months in Liverpool's Alder Hey Hospital to manage her condition and to relieve her constant pain. It was at this point a paediatrician suggested the family consider a respite stay at the Tŷ Gobaith children's hospice near Conwy town. From the moment the family arrived at the centre, in the spring sunshine, they were made to feel at ease. Ffion's first impression was just how beautiful the setting was. 'We went inside and everybody was making a fuss of Alaw and she was loving it,' she said. 'We were offered a cup of tea and a piece of banoffee pie and invited to sit down. Someone said, 'We'll take Alaw' - that was scary because we'd never left her with someone else as she is so medically complex. No one knew her like I knew her. 'The first time we left her overnight was massive for us but it felt like a safe place and I'm not just talking about the nurses, I'm talking about the housekeepers and the kitchen staff and how everybody knows everything that is going on there and how everyone is involved in Alaw's care like one big family. "I think they are the only people in the world who really understand what being parents to a medically complex child is all about. 'For instance the social work team is amazing and point you in the right direction if you need something. I don't have the time to do nice things such as searching for accessible family holidays we can take Alaw on, but they did that and sent me the links.' In recent weeks Alaw's face has featured on the cover of envelopes that have landed on 32,000 doormats. These contain information about Tŷ Gobaith's summer campaign, which in just a few short weeks has already raised more than £60,000. Barry has played his part, abseilling down the Anglesey Column to raise money on behalf of Alaw, who he calls his "little fighter". A new chapter has now opened for the family with the arrival of a baby boy, Caio. Continued help from the charity means Barry and Ffion are better able to focus their energies on their children. She added: 'Without Tŷ Gobaith, life would be like it was before – we would be exhausted and at rock bottom, and that isn't a nice place to be. Respite is giving us that chance to have a breather. 'When Alaw is at Ty Gobaith we get to slow down and make sure that we don't reach burn out like we used to. That makes us better parents.'
Pembrokeshire Herald
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Four days of folk music fill Fishguard and Goodwick
FISHGUARD and Goodwick are ringing with the sound of folk music once again as the Fishguard Folk Festival returns for its 24th year, running from Friday (May 23) to Bank Holiday Monday (May 26). The four-day celebration of music, song, and dance sees venues across the twin towns come alive with performances, workshops, storytelling, and informal sessions, attracting visitors and artists from across Wales and beyond. Firmly established on the folk calendar, the festival highlights both traditional and contemporary expressions of folk culture, with a programme that includes bilingual performances, open mic slots, children's activities, and walking tours — many of them free to attend. Festival Development Manager Claire Quinn said the event offers something for everyone: 'What makes Fishguard Folk Festival truly special is the variety of ways to experience folk music and culture — whether you're enjoying live performances, joining sessions and workshops, trying something new, or simply soaking up the atmosphere.' Headline concerts this year include a sold-out Sunday performance from acclaimed Welsh acts Alaw and Cynefin. On Friday evening, BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year Ríoghnach Connolly performs at Bethel Chapel with John Ellis, known for his work with Tom Jones and Lily Allen, supported by the lively London Irish SGH Trio. Saturday night sees festival favourites 3 Daft Monkeys take the stage at Theatr Gwaun. Beyond the ticketed concerts, visitors can explore the Barti session trail — 11 venues across the towns hosting informal music sessions — as well as an art exhibition at Trove Gallery and quayside festivities in Lower Town, which include local food stalls, live music, and a visit from Celtic Sail and Trade's sailing ship. Workshops range from Welsh singing and storytelling to Tiny Twmpaths for younger children, and there are opportunities to learn and participate throughout the weekend. The festival is supported by local sponsors including The Royal Oak, Barti Rum, and Stena Line, along with backing from Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council, the Oakdale Trust and Pembrokeshire County Council. More details, including how to book for remaining ticketed events and workshops, are available at
Western Telegraph
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Fishguard Folk Festival brings four days of music to Pembs
Fishguard Folk Festival returns for its 24th year running from today, Friday, May 23 to Monday, May 26 and bringing with it a vibrant celebration of folk music and culture. Set in the twin towns of Goodwick and Fishguard, the festival aims to preserve, share, and develop the folk traditions of Wales and beyond. (Image: Western Telegraph) Alongside timeless traditional sounds, the festival highlights the exciting evolution of folk music — reflecting Wales' dynamic and diverse cultural landscape. With top-quality musicians, artists, and educators, the festival offers performances, sessions, and workshops for all ages and abilities. This year includes bilingual programming, family-friendly activities, and open spaces for learning and creativity — from Welsh singing workshops and storytelling, walks to open mic slots and Tiny Twmpaths for little ones. (Image: Western Telegraph) The festival is mainly free with just three ticketed headline concerts and donations welcomed for other events. Workshops are a mix of drop in or pre-booked. Claire Quinn, festival development manager, said: 'What makes Fishguard Folk Festival truly special is the variety of ways to experience folk music and culture—whether you're enjoying live performances, joining sessions and workshops, trying something new, or simply soaking up the atmosphere. (Image: Sarah Shaw) 'It's a welcoming space to have fun, connect with others, and create lasting memories.' Sunday's concert by Welsh acts Alaw and Cynefin is now sold out, but tickets are still available for the two other headline concerts. Friday's gig at Bethel Chapel features BBC Radio 2 and RTE folk singer of the year Ríoghnach Connolly with John Ellis, who has worked with the likes of Corinne Bailey Rae, Lily Allen, Tom Jones, Mica Paris and John Squire of the Stone Roses. They will be supported on the night by a lively set from the London Irish SGH Trio. UK festival favourite 3 Daft Monkeys, from Cornwall, headline on Saturday at Theatr Gwaun. (Image: Western Telegraph) There are lots of free performances, the Barti session trail - featuring live music sessions at 11 venues across town (just take along your acoustic instrument to join in), engaging talks, an art exhibition at Trove from Meinir Matthias and Quayside festivities in Lower Town featuring local food, music and environmental activities. There will also be a visit by Celtic Sail and Trade's beautiful sailing ship. The festival committee thanked all sponsors supporters and volunteers who make the festival possible including main sponsor The Royal Oak (home to the festival's famous all weekend session), Fishguard Folk Singers, Barti rum and Stenaline. Support this year has also come from Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council, The Oakdale Trust and Pembrokeshire County Council. (Image: Western Telegraph) For more information go to linked above, or find the festival on Facebook and Eventbrite (Friday night concert and workshops). Tickets for 3 Daft Monkeys are available from Theatr Gwaun and its website.
