Oakley Waterman Caravan Foundation

childrens charity hampshire


childrens charity hampshire

The Oakley Waterman Caravan Foundation

Providing holiday homes for children suffering from life threatening conditions.

They ride tricycles in the hallway, not in the park. They know the names of treatments instead of their classmates.
Their central lines have names. Nurses and doctors are their new family.
They think hair is overrated. Their laughter can make a heart melt. Their strength will make a grown person cry.
If you ever see a child fight cancer it will change your life forever.


What We Do

The Oakley Waterman Caravan Foundation provides respite accommodation on two Haven campsites in England. To enable children suffering from life-threatening illnesses to have quality time with their families.


Oakley's Wish

The Oakley Waterman Caravan Foundation was founded by Dave and Lorraine Waterman from Gosport shortly before Oakley, their six-year old son, died of a rare form of cancer called Rhabdomysarcoma in 2005.

It was while enjoying precious time together, staying in a caravan at Church Farm Holiday Village at Pagham near Chichester, that Oakley announced his wish. He wished that they could purchase a caravan at Church Farm, which he loved so much, so it could also be used by other children, who are suffering with similar life-threatening illnesses.

The caravan would enable them to enjoy time away from the normal daily routine and hospital scene, to enjoy a short break with entertainment for the family. So the parents agreed to their sons only wish and with the help of some friends a caravan was purchased at the site in 2005. In 2016 Oaks Army and the local community took on the challenge to raise £100,000 to purchase the 8 berth lodge now at Church Farm. In addition to this a second caravan was purchased at New Forest for the charity to use in 2017.

"There are so many kind-hearted people out there. Oakley would be so proud of everybody who has helped us." Dave Waterman






Oakley's Story

In 2002, after many doctors and hospital visits and not getting any answers, finally an answer came which no one could prepare themselves for. Oakley was diagnosed with Rhabdomysarcoma when a tumour was found in his pelvis. After an operation, chemotherapy and radiotherapy he was in remission.

However, the tumour returned. In 2005 the tumour was found to be inoperable and the foundation was established to fulfil Oakley's wish to stay at Church Farm and for other children to benefit from spending time there.


childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire


Inside Our Holiday Homes


childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



childrens charity hampshire



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