Daisy’s Special Break honeymoon in the Cotswolds

At 29, Daisy from Walton-on-Thames is living with Behçet’s disease, a rare and severe inflammatory condition that affects her brain and spinal cord. After a long and difficult journey of treatment and hospital stays, Daisy and her husband Alex were given the chance to spend precious time together on their honeymoon, thanks to Willow.

“We will remember our time on this break forever as a beautiful start to married life.”

Daisy’s journey with Behçet’s disease

“I was diagnosed with neuro-Behçet’s disease in November 2024 after six years of unexplained symptoms. It is one of the most severe presentations of Behçet’s and has left me a full-time wheelchair user. Earlier this year I spent six weeks in hospital receiving intensive treatment, including chemotherapy, which has had a huge impact on my physical and emotional health.

“The illness affects my whole family. My husband cares for me full time alongside his job. My parents, who live abroad, find the distance incredibly difficult when I am so unwell. It has been a very hard time for all of us.”

Time together

“We chose to use our Special Break for our honeymoon after getting married in July. Because of my treatment we couldn’t have the honeymoon we had planned. Willow stepped in and organised everything for us at the De Vere Cotswolds Water Park.

“To spend four nights together, with everything taken care of, was such a gift. Alex didn’t have to cook or clean and we could just focus on being together as newlyweds. It was also important for me that Alex was recognised because carers are rarely given that chance.

“One highlight was being able to share a meal with friends who also live with Behçet’s. To include them made the experience even more special.”

“Just what we needed”

“This break was just what we needed after our wedding. We will always remember it as a precious time when we could be together, away from the stress and treatment. Willow gave us memories we will treasure forever.”

Willow provides special experiences for seriously ill young adults like Daisy. Donate today to help more families create lasting memories.