A family from Tyneside was this week given the chance to make lasting memories after a challenging two years, thanks to South Shields-based children’s charity, The Charlie and Carter Foundation and its community partner, train operator, Lumo.
At five years old, Evie Green has already faced challenges beyond her years. Diagnosed with myocarditis at just four months old, Evie’s condition progressed to the point where, by the age of four, she was in urgent need of a heart transplant.
In the spring of 2023, Evie was placed on a Berlin Heart Ventricular Assist Device while awaiting a heart transplant. While the device was lifesaving, it meant she had to stay in the hospital and couldn’t run or play freely because she was connected to the machine.
After more than a year in hospital and a national call out for a new heart, Evie finally received a transplant in the summer of 2024 at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital. While Evie was in hospital her family was supported by The Charlie and Carter Foundation, which provides financial relief to families of critically ill children, so that they can stay by their side without the worry of financial strain.
Lumo, who selected The Charlie and Carter Foundation as its charity partner of the year for 2024/25, following a unanimous internal vote and as part of its ongoing commitment to the organisation, were delighted arrange a special trip to Edinburgh for Evie and her family to enjoy some much-needed family fun.
The day to the Scottish capital included a complimentary visit to Edinburgh Zoo, Camera Obscura and even a ride in Lumo’s driver’s cab.
Sarah Cookson MBE, Co-Founder of The Charlie and Carter Foundation, said: “The biggest thank you to Lumo for organising this very special trip out for Evie and her family, helping them make precious memories to treasure forever.
“This beautiful and brave little girl has spent so long in hospital and her family have spent so long worrying, they deserve the world and more.
“Our charity provides financial support to families who care 24/7 for their sick children who are suffering from life limiting conditions and we know only too well how much they struggle and worry each day.
“Days like these would have just been a dream before Evie received her gift of life. Thank you never seems enough, but thank you Lumo, it was a day they will remember forever.”
Martijn Gilbert, Managing Director of Lumo, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have given Evie and her family a wonderful day out in Edinburgh. After spending so much time in hospital and missing out on experiences most children enjoy, providing them with a memorable day of fun together was truly the least we could do.
“We’re proud to partner with South Shields based Charlie and Carter Foundation, whose incredible work supports families like Evie’s right across the country. We look forward to continuing our efforts together to make a meaningful difference.”
Evie’s mum, Chloe Green, said: “We are very grateful to Lumo for providing a VIP day out in Edinburgh and to The Charlie and Carter Foundation for nominating our family for this special trip.
“Evie received a heart transplant last summer and was in hospital for 18 months overall, so it is so nice to be able to go on days out thanks to Evie’s special donor heart. We had a fantastic trip exploring Edinburgh, going to the zoo, Camera Obscura and walking along the Royal Mile and we will be forever grateful for this trip.”
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