Madison meets Yungblud at Bludfest

Madison’s Special Day was a day surrounded by music and love at Bludfest in Milton Keynes. Madison was diagnosed with hepatic fibrosis following a kidney transplant. The day gave her the motivation she needed to look after herself and not fall into a rut.

“My Special Day motivated me to keep myself in top shape. I used it as something to work towards, to stay healthy and look after myself, and to not fall into a rut.”

Madison’s story

“I was diagnosed with hepatic fibrosis when I was 19 years old, following a kidney transplant in 2018. My illness has caused me to go into a life of isolation due to my immune system – or lack of it.

“I dropped out of college because I was in pain every day, just walking to and from the bus stop. But I bought my own art supplies and got to work on my own stuff. We spent a lot of money on a wheelchair and fuel for the hospital trips to Birmingham.

“I have a great relationship with my mum and grandad and my siblings. My siblings are more aware of my illness now they’re older. I can see it upsets them as much as it does me when I have days in bed and can’t move. Sometimes I notice my mum crying in hospital. It’s heart-breaking but we all always find a way to lift each other up. I’m happy to be supported by my family.”

Bludfest and Yungblud

“I could feel myself slowly losing the plot, just living in my own little world.

“Therefore, concerts are where I go to connect, to feel at home, at peace and free. Concerts are where I meet my friends, the ones that have stuck with me and looked out for me. We now go to gigs together, which helps my mental health a lot.

“My Special Day at Bludfest was extra special because Willow arranged for me to meet my idol Yungblud who I have looked up to since the kidney transplant. It was great to hug him and thank him for giving me the courage to keep going and keep fighting. His music has and always will be my lifeline. It was a day when I was allowed to be selfish and make it all about me. No stress from hospital visits, just a day to spend with the people I love most.”

“Willow made it possible for me to enjoy a Special Day surrounded by the people I love most, without stress or worries.”

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