A family said they celebrate each Christmas like it is "the last time [they] are all together".
Paige Higham, from Runcorn, was born with a rare form of epilepsy called West syndrome as well as other complex medical conditions, which together have left her a permanent wheelchair user, as well as having poor vision and needing regular oxygen monitoring and 24-hour care.
Paige's mum Stacey said she also needs 24-hour care at home. Heartbreakingly, the family were told Paige would not live past her first birthday but the teenager is now 16.
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Stacey added the family "cherish every day, especially Christmas, because we never know if it will be the last time we are all together."
The mum-of-two said: "Paige was born with a rare form of epilepsy called West syndrome. She suffers seizures every day, and she has other complex health needs. She needs 24-hour care and oxygen at home 24/7.
"Heartbreakingly, we were told Paige may not live past her first birthday. She’s 16 now, so it’s a blessing to have enjoyed so many Christmases together. When I see our youngest daughter Poppy’s little face light up as she opens her poorly big sister’s presents for her, I soak in every moment."
Paige's family have teamed up with children’s charity Claire House to appeal for donations at Christmas as they said they would "be lost" without them.
She added: "Hearing laughter and the ripping of wrapping paper on Christmas day always fills us with joy and it’s a sound we never take for granted. Christmas is magical for all families, but for us it’s so special because we don’t know how many Christmases we’ve got left with our eldest daughter Paige.
"Fortunately, we were introduced to Claire House Children’s Hospice when Paige was a baby and she still goes for respite care. They help us make the most of the time we have left with Paige by offering support and enabling us to lead as normal a life as possible.
"We would be lost without Claire House."
Stacey said she and husband Dan make a "big fuss" during the festive period.
She added: "Paige can’t walk or talk, but her six-year-old sister wants to include her in everything she does, especially all the fun at Christmas. Before we know it, Poppy’s unwrapped gift after gift for Paige, telling her what Father Christmas has brought. They’re best friends.
"Every year, my husband Dan and I make a big fuss. We have a huge Christmas tree, massive decorations and lots of toys – there’s wrapping paper everywhere. For us, Christmas is about being together, so we have all the family come round to open presents. It’s our favourite time of year.
"It is difficult having a child with a life-limiting disability, but Claire House brings happiness to families like ours. The girls have been to Christmas parties at Claire House, so Poppy has had fun with other siblings in a similar situation.
"In the past, Paige has had respite care between Christmas and New Year. It’s a nice, homely environment for Paige and it gives us a much-needed break from being on constant call. Please give to Claire House, so they can help make Christmas special for families like ours."
To donate to Claire House, visit clairehouse.org.uk
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