London hospital place secured for critically ill 14-month-old girl

Speaking to BBC Look North last week, Mrs Suff said Penelope’s condition, which affects the heart’s ability to pump blood around the body, was diagnosed when she was only a few weeks old.

It was initially managed through medication, however her condition deteriorated during a routine stay in hospital in Leeds about a fortnight ago and she went into cardiac arrest.

Since then, Penelope has been reliant on a life support device which temporarily takes over the heart and lungs.

Mrs Suff said Penelope required a Berlin Heart device that helps pump blood around her body.

Following the success of their online appeal, the family hoped to share further updates on her treatment in coming days.

Thanking those who contributed, they said: “There are no words that can be used to say how thankful we are to each and every single person who has donated, shared Penelope’s story or sent us messages of support.

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”

The family also thanked staff at Leeds Children’s Hospital, who they say “provided the most amazing care to our little girl” in recent weeks.

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