29-03-2025
Five-year-old diagnosed with leukaemia set to raise funds for south Essex hospice
A FIVE-year-old boy who has been supported by Little Havens Hospice since been diagnosed with leukaemia is taking part in a charity challenge as a thank you.
Dexter Clarke-Duggan was diagnosed with B-Cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in May 2023 just after his third birthday.
During the early stages of his treatment, he struggled with trauma, anxiety and a loss of trust in others, caused by his medical procedures.
Since then, he has been supported by Little Havens Hospice, in Thundersley, and the support has become a lifeline for him and his family.
Now, he will be taking on the challenge of walking on Lego as part of a fundraiser on April 12 in Chelmsford.
His mother Aimee, who is supporting him with his Lego Walk challenge, said: 'He stopped walking, he would barely talk, and he hid in his pushchair with his arm covering his face. But when he was referred to Little Havens for play therapy, things started to change.
'By the end of his sessions, Dexter was back to his cheeky, funny, energetic self, running around the hospice full of confidence.'
Excited - Dexter Clarke-Duggan (Image: Havens hospices)
The specialist care Dexter received at Little Havens didn't stop there. After completing his therapy, he continued attending weekly stay and play sessions, which he still looks forward to during school holidays.
Aimee said, 'Dexter loves Little Havens, and he loves Lego, so it seemed like a perfect match. He was so excited about the idea of raising money for his friends at Little Havens.'
For Dexter's family, Little Havens has provided not only vital care but also a sense of community and emotional support during one of the most difficult times of their lives.
Aimee added: 'At the very start of Dexter's journey, it was a safe place to go when he was too poorly to be in normal places with other children. Over time, it became a haven for both of us. Meeting other families facing similar struggles has made such a difference. Little Havens has helped me feel less alone and given me a network of people who understand what we're going through.
'Dexter loves everyone at Little Havens. It's the place he feels most himself. I'm so grateful for the incredibly kind, caring and passionate staff there who make him feel safe and happy. I honestly don't know where we would be without them. I love the feeling when we walk through the doors, and I don't have to worry about anything as I know he is safe and happy.'
To support Dexter with a donation, visit
