One step at a time – Bill’s donation boosts Sensory Saturdays at Sheffield Children’s

Bill and his family have been making positive change one step at a time!  

When 14-year-old Bill first heard that he needed to have an MRI scan in 2024, he was filled with anxiety. However, with the help of the Sensory Saturday team at Sheffield Children’s, Bill grew in confidence, overcame his fears, and successfully completed his scan.  

Now, two years on from his first MRI scan, Bill and his family have donated a set of marvellous interactive floor tiles, which will be used to support people who, like him, are anxious about taking their first steps into the MRI department.  

Lucie, Bill’s mum, said: “Bill completing his MRI scan has only been possible because of the fabulous MRI Department team. Sarah, Kirsty and Sarah have been outstanding – they have turned a highly anxious teen who couldn’t even go into the machine into someone who is proud of themselves and able to do this again.  

“We really wanted to give something back, and when we asked the team, they highlighted the floor tiles as something that could help more young people, which is why we bought them.”  

Following Bill’s first referral, Lucie got in touch with the team, and explained that Bill was autistic, and has sensitivities to lights, noise and touch.   

Lucie said: “For Bill, the thought of entering the machine, hearing the machine’s noise and staying still in a confined space for an extended period caused him a lot of anxiety. The team heard this and were really helpful in making a plan.”  

At first, the team focused on making sure that Bill felt safe and comfortable in the MRI area, arranging two separate visits in which Bill was encouraged to look around the department, meet the team, ask any questions and test out the MRI machine.   

Then, Bill then attended a Sensory Saturday clinic for his MRI scan. These clinics have been developed to support children and young people by allowing them to experience procedures in an environment that is calmer than usual. This is done by providing quieter spaces and darker rooms with special lighting that help create an ambient and relaxing atmosphere.  

During Bill’s visits, the team were able to build a relationship founded on trust, offering a holistic and unique care package that addressed Bill’s initial worries. After a few visits, he managed to have his MRI scan successfully.  

Lucie said: “Bill’s no longer scared, and he is very proud of himself. Knowing that Bill isn’t traumatised by the MRI is huge as a parent, too. Sensory Saturdays are such a valuable thing to offer – I’m so grateful for the efforts of the team.  

The donation came following the sad passing of Bill’s dad Dennis in October 2025, who chose Sheffield Children’s Sensory Saturdays as the beneficiary from his funeral collection. The positive thoughts generated by the impact of this donation were a welcome distraction for Bill and his family during an otherwise difficult period, and they hope that these interactive tiles will be put to good use supporting children and young people visiting Sheffield Children’s for their scans.  

Bill said: “I didn’t do my scan first-time, but I found the way that was right for me. Hopefully, others will find the tiles helpful when they’re getting their scan done too.”  

Thanks to Bill and his family for their donation!