A young woman was described as a "miracle" as she continues to tick off her bucket list, despite being placed on end of life care.
Samantha MacVicar has been doing all she can to ensure her daughter Caitlin makes lasting memories as her health slowly deteriorates. But despite being in pain, Caitlin Shaw always has a smile on her face as she looks for new challenges and completes her bucket list.
Caitlin was born with a severe heart condition and her family were told she would not survive her first 24-hours. Being rushed to Alder Hey from Northwich, she underwent life-saving surgery before a further operation at six-weeks old, which stabilised her heart for some time.
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Despite being faced with many health complications, Caitlin is now aged 20 and has been an "inspiration". But the family received some devastating news when they were told by doctors that she would now be under palliative care and she had agreed to a DNR [do not resuscitate].
Mum Sam is now hoping to make as many memories as they can, ticking off Caitlin's bucket list. After launching a GoFundMe, the support has come pouring in.
Mum Sam said: "She's doing absolutely brilliantly. She's a miracle, fighting on every day. She's refused pain meds, she's in a lot of pain but she doesn't want it to lessen her life, she wants to live her life.
"She's the one keeping me strong. She's obviously accepted what's happening, she has for a long time but when the doctors give no glimmer of hope and you see her fighting on, it's crazy to watch.
"Sometimes you think are they wrong. I know they aren't, I see her deteriorating slowly but she's so strong."
Thanks to the incredible support, this year, Caitlin managed to paddle in the Mediterranean, visit France and Italy and see The Script live in Blackpool. One of Caitlin's wishes was to also ride her own motorbike but due to her illness she couldn't.
So on June 3, owners of a motorbike club Kaz Brittle and Andy Stocker organised for her to ride on a trike followed by a convoy of motorbikes alongside her step-dad Ian. Hundreds of motorbikes, trikes, scooters and cars turned up to take Caitlin to Ponderosa in Wales.
Sam added: "It's been amazing the amount of support she's received. It means everything to us, me and her stepdad have been so emotional. I was more emotional when I saw the bikes at the weekend, it was something I never expected, I was in tears. I still have no words, it's outstanding seeing communities come together."
Sam said: "I turned up at J&S expecting about 50 bikers, the whole of the car park was full of bikers ready to greet Caitlin to take her to Ponderosa on her ride the support was overwhelming and very emotional, the atmosphere was amazing everybody wanted to make it a fun day for our daughter.
"Her stepdad rode alongside Caitlin on the back of one of his close army friend's bike, who is still overwhelmed by the support and generosity of everyone involved. Caitlin was presented with her very own helmet with her favourite Disney characters printed on it Lilo and Stitch with the very poignant words "embrace the wind Caitlin keep smiling through every mile you inspire us all".
Her fundraising page is still open to continue allowing Caitlin to tick off her bucket list, that can be found here. Family friend Ruth Bailey is also completing a wing walk for Caitlin as more information can be found on her Facebook Page.
Sam added: "We'd like to thank everyone involved and who took part, we are still shocked by how many turnout for our daughter who loved every minute."
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