Our Beneficiary Criteria
Little Blue Heroes Foundation only considers applications for assistance for families with children (a child as being a person under the age of 18 at time of application), in Ireland, with life-threatening and life-limiting condition(s) that comes under one of the four categorisations set out below:
Category 1 - Genetic and Congenital Disorders
Examples: Cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, congenital heart defects, spinal muscular atrophy.
Characteristics: These are conditions present from birth, often due to genetic abnormalities. They can cause severe physical and developmental impairments, often requiring ongoing medical care and interventions.
Category 2 - Neurological and Neuromuscular Disorders
Examples: Cerebral palsy, epilepsy, severe forms of muscular dystrophy, brain tumours.
Characteristics: These conditions affect the brain, spinal cord, or muscles, leading to significant physical and cognitive disabilities. They often require extensive medical treatment, therapy, and supportive care.
Category 3 - Cancers and Malignant Diseases
Examples: Leukaemia, neuroblastoma, brain tumours, sarcomas.
Characteristics: These are life-threatening due to their aggressive nature and potential to spread throughout the body. Treatment typically involves intensive therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, with significant side effects and long-term health implications.
Category 4 - Chronic and Severe Organ Diseases
Examples: Severe congenital heart disease, chronic renal failure, severe respiratory conditions (e.g. cystic fibrosis-related lung disease).
Characteristics: These conditions involve critical organs and require long-term medical management. They can lead to frequent hospitalisations, complex treatment regimens, and often necessitate organ transplants or other major interventions.
These categories encompass a wide range of serious illnesses that significantly impact children's lives, requiring comprehensive and specialised medical care and support.