You can tune in for a truly insightful conversation with Charlotte Fairall the CEO of Sophie's Legacy & Sarah Owen from Starlight, about why play should never be seen as an optional extra, the difference play makes during procedures, and how we can ensure every child has the opportunity to play while in hospital.
Policy
Starlight's Policy and Public Affairs manager discusses healthcare trauma on podcast
Sophie's Legacy was set up in memory of Charlotte's daughter Sophie who had just turned nine when she was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma in September 2020. During her treatment, she endured nine rounds of intense chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiotherapy.
Sophie (pictured behind Charlotte) never managed to get into remission and passed away aged 10, in September 2021, just one year after her diagnosis.
Sophie wrote a bucket list of things she wanted changed for children and families in her memory shortly before she died and Sophie's Legacy's mission is to achieve this. It supports children and families affected by long hospital stays while also campaigning for improvements in children's healthcare. It also provides practical help with essentials including transport, food and clothing for parents and families affected by cancer.
Sarah's son Hari (pictured), aged 9, was diagnosed with leukaemia aged four and Sarah witnessed first-hand the difference therapeutic play made to her son on the rare occasions it was available. Her experience inspired her to create change by working for Starlight.
There is a snippet here: Holding down children - Instagram
You can find the full episode at:
YouTube
https://youtu.be/6Yl2lxU7gTc
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/033rkZY6KtVz1Q6klBVfXK
Amazon Music/Apple Podcasts
You can also find it on Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts by searching ‘Sophie’s Legacy Podcast’
July 2026