Barts and The London Children's Hospital | Patient stories | Tyler's story
Tyler's story
For Tyler Sparks, who suffers from cystic fibrosis, coming into hospital could be a lonely experience as she has to stay alone in a cubicle to prevent cross infection. Instead it’s made easier by the facilities on the children’s wards - music, TV, art and even the chance to shine in the karaoke spotlight.
At Tyler’s home, cystic fibrosis is a way of life; her four year-old sister Regan also has the disease and both girls are lifelong patients of the Barts and The London Children’s Hospital.
In the last year, Tyler has been in hospital twice, for around two weeks each time. “Staff work hard to ensure a homely environment where youngsters are kept entertained,” explains Jacqui Cowlard, Clinical Nurse Specialist.
A bedside entertainment system with television and music channels, a special adolescent’s room – equipped with another television and that karaoke machine – keep her amused. She’s also been taken up on the hospital roof to see the helipad in action.
But school still figures in her day. Barclay Ward’s modern, computer-equipped classroom and resident teacher means Tyler has kept up-to-date and has just sat her GCSEs. She plans to do business and media studies at college and next year reaches another milestone, moving on to adult services at The London Chest Hospital.
