This page is dedicated to memory of James Sammon
5th April 1998 - 16th October 2006
James travelled to Lourdes five times with HCPT

James' Story

My name is James. I am eight years old. I suffer from Sturge Weber Syndrome, which means I have cerebral palsy, epilepsy, haemoplegia (a weakness down my right side), glaucoma, and a port wine stain on my face, which means I am very special indeed.

Although I am registered blind, I have very good hearing and I never miss an opportunity for a cuddle. Even at night when my mum creeps into my room (when she thinks I am asleep). I have a sixth sense and always open at least one eye towards the sound!

Having spent my short life between Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and Wigan Infirmary, my parents were told by the hospital doctors that no more could be done for me, because of my condition I was taken to Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley.

I would now like to tell you how I was to be able to go to Lourdes with HCPT The Pilgrimage Trust, Wigan Group 194.

I first went to Lourdes at Easter 2002, when I was three years old. At the time I was so poorly that it was doubtful that I would be well enough to travel.  Although the odds were against me, everyone prayed for me to get better, and I did.  My Nan, ‘Nanny Annie’ came with me to Lourdes, as my carer, along with Caroline a group member.

The group welcomed both me and my Nan with open arms, and we quickly became established as an essential part of the group.  I received so much attention, especially from the ladies in the group.

We had a wonderful holiday in Lourdes, everyone loved me and made a great fuss of me. I was blessed by eight Bishops that first year.

I loved every minute of my time in Lourdes. I loved the singing and dancing at the Masses. There was so much going on, from the candlelight processions to playing games on the Prairie, there were children’s stations of the cross and ‘prayers on the stairs’ and towards the end of the week we had a fancy dress party.

We had a trip to mountains in Gavarnie and frequented many French cafés. The best thing of all for me, was going to the baths, although it was cold, I know it helped me a great deal. On our last night, we lit candles for our families,  with a big group hug we all cried together.

The group have taken me to Lourdes five times now, and if I could speak I would say thank you all a thousand times and God bless you always. I am feeling much better,

I would like to say a special thank you to everyone especially Group Leader Shiela and my special friend Caroline x

Lourdes has helped me an awful lot. God bless you all.