A safe space for sorrow and strength

After losing their sibling in the most devastating of ways, sisters Nevie and Tizzy have found a small place to retreat, reflect and heal – thanks, in part, to a simple gesture from Satan’s Little Helper.

On 19 February 2024, the family’s world was shattered when mum Debbie, dad Richard and 16-year-old sisters Nevie and Tizzy discovered their sibling had taken their own life.

“Our lives were ripped apart,” says Debbie. “The girls lost so much that day – not only their sibling Scarlet but, in a way, their mum too. They have seen more heartache than they should ever have to face.”

The loss of Scarlet has left a silence in the family home that no one can fill. On top of that, both girls have additional needs that already made everyday life more complex.

Tizzy, Nevie’s twin, has Noonan Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects physical development and often requires intensive one-on-one care. Nevie is autistic and tube-fed – her world, already full of challenges, was shaken even further by the loss of Scarlet.

“Their lives have been turned upside down,” says Debbie. “My girls have had to grow up fast and live through a nightmare.”

Finding a sense of peace

To help Nevie and Tizzy through their grief, Satan’s Little Helper gifted the sisters a hanging egg chair and a collection of art supplies – chosen specifically to give them a physical and creative space to retreat to and to honour their sibling’s memory in their own way.

“Having their nomination accepted was like a rainbow after a storm,” says Debbie.

Placed in the dining room, facing the evening light, the egg chair has already become something more than furniture.

“The egg chair is the girls’ happy place and the art supplies have given them an outlet to work through their emotions and a safe place to go when they need time out,” says Debbie.

“I can’t change the circumstances they’re in. But it’s so lovely for the girls to have a place to remember Scarlet and something therapeutic to help them through this journey.”