The big picture: Charlotte's journey from spending her first four months in hospital to becoming a fun-loving, confident child shows the transformative impact of EACH's Treehouse hospice in Ipswich.
Why it matters: The Charity Film Awards (CFAs) are the world's largest cause-based film campaign, with over 2.7 million viewers expected to tune in to the 2024 virtual event. Winning would shine a national spotlight on the charity's vital work.
Behind the story: Charlotte lives with Nemaline Myopathy, a rare genetic disorder causing muscle weakness throughout her body. Despite facing continuous health challenges, particularly during winter, she maintains a remarkably positive outlook.
"She's so resilient, pragmatic and robust," says her mum Nova. "She continues to defy the odds but is an absolute trooper and fights with all her might."
Life at the Treehouse: Charlotte particularly enjoys:
Music therapy, especially playing the keyboard
Baking cookies for carers and nurses
Arts and crafts
Playing board games
Using the hospice garden swing
"The staff are really nice and I enjoy chatting to them," Charlotte says. "My favourite thing is music therapy...it makes me happy."
What they're saying: The man behind the camera, Kevin Burch, said: “I’m delighted that the film has been put forward because it helps highlight the incredible things which happen at EACH and the immense skill and dedication of their team.
“Charlotte and Jenny, the nurse, were so natural and relaxed that it made my job of filming them so easy. It’s a privilege that I get to do what I do behind the camera."
The bottom line: Charlotte's story represents thousands of children and families supported by EACH across East Anglia. You can help recognise Charlotte's story and EACH's vital work by voting for the film at https://smileycharityfilmawards.com/films/charlottes-story.
