James Hopkins

James was born in Gloucestershire Royal hospital on the 17th of September 1987 but died on the 29th May 1989 from an infection.
	In September 1989, Vance and Heather Hopkins decided to start The James Hopkins Trust for special children in memory of their son James, in order to help others like him and their parents. The basic principle of their inspired decision was to enable the children to be cared for at home so that families may experience the tremendous love and bonding that they were able to share with James
Here is what James’ Paediatrician had to say:- James had a rare condition called myotubular myopathy, which resulted in his muscles being so weak that even swallowing and coughing was difficult for him. His loving parents, Vance and Heather, became experts at nursing him and this meant that he was able to live as normal a life as possible at home and very little of his life was spent in hospital. All movements were difficult for James but he had great courage and determination. He was very popular with everyone who looked after him and had a very definite personality. He understood as much as other children of his age but his condition prevented him speaking. He seemed to be able to reach out to others with the expression in his eyes and it was a great thrill for everyone when he began to put out his arms to explore the world by touch as well as by vision and sound. He seemed to be getting a little stronger all the time and this made it all the harder for everyone when he developed the severe infection which brought his short life to an end. For James, as for all children with special needs, the most important thing in life is to be brought up by loving parents but they also require special help, and often special equipment, in order for them to achieve their best. For this reason I fully support the aims of The James Hopkins Trust for special children. Dr. Stevens Consultant Paediatrician, Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.
A CHILD LOANED "I’ll lend you for a little while, a child of mine," He said, "For you to love while he lives, and mourn for when he’s dead. It may be six or seven months, or twenty two or three, But will you, till I call him back, take care of him for Me? He’ll bring his charms to gladden you. And should his stay be brief, You’ll have his lovely memories, as a solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay, since all from earth return. But there are lessons taught down there I want this child to learn. I’ve looked the whole world over, and from the throngs that crowd life’s lanes, I have selected you; Now will you give him all your love, not think the labour vain, Nor hate Me when I come to call, and take him back again?" I fancied that I heard them say, "Dear Lord, Thy will be done, For all the joy Thy child shall bring, the risk of grief we’ll run. We’ll shelter him with tenderness, we’ll love him while we may, And for the happiness we’ve known, forever grateful stay. But should the angels call for him much sooner than we planned, We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes and try to understand." anon
If you know of anyone that would benefit from James' Trust, then please contact us (Tel: 01452 612216)