Welcome to the first newsletter in this year’s series of the 12 blogs of Christmas, every December Mary would share 12 stories from across the year about the children and events from The GLO & SBM school so we wanted to continue that tradition.
Thank you to every one for their continued support during what has been undoubtedly a hard year personally and globally.
We hope you enjoy reading the Twelve blogs of Christmas 2024.
Number One: A Legacy of Love: Hattie’s House
This newsletter is kindly written by Lisa Dixon, Hattie’s Mum:
On 25th June 2021, our lives changed forever. We lost our beautiful daughter, Hattie (Harriet Eve Dixon), at just 15 years old. Hattie brought light and love wherever she went, and it was her kindness and love of children that inspired us to create a legacy in her name.
Years before, when Hattie was still at primary school, our family fundraised for the Good Life Orphanage. When Hattie left us, many family and friends wanted to donate in her memory, and it felt right that the GLO would become the focus of this generosity. We met Mary, GLO’s caring and inspirational founder, who shared her plans to support children with disabilities and additional needs—children too often neglected or excluded.
Together, we envisioned a space where these children could find care, therapy, and dignity: Hattie’s House.
Mary sadly passed away earlier this year, but her legacy continues through the incredible work she started. Since the official opening of Hattie’s House during our first visit to Kenya in 2023, it has grown from strength to strength. In October 2024, I returned to see this progress firsthand and had the honour of opening a new sensory room, a cornerstone of the 5-year plan to expand Hattie’s House and reach even more children in need.
During my visit, I had the privilege of reconnecting with the dedicated staff, caregivers, and children—those who make the magic of GLO and Hattie’s House possible. I also met with local communities, visiting schools and homes to better understand their needs and how we can support them moving forward. This time was invaluable, not only for strengthening relationships but also for building confidence in the future of Mary’s and Hattie’s legacies.
I was joined by two dear friends, who were moved by the work at Hattie’s House and inspired to help spread the word. Their visit reminded me how sharing this work brings people together, igniting passion and support for a brighter future.
Finally, spending time with the GLO Mamas, Aunties, and the amazing children is always a joy. Their resilience and warmth amidst uncertainty reaffirm our commitment to their care. Together, we will ensure that the children of GLO and Hattie’s House continue to thrive.
Thank you to everyone who supports Hattie’s House and the GLO. With your help, we are building something extraordinary—a place of hope, care, and opportunity. We look forward to sharing more updates as this journey continues.
With heartfelt gratitude,
The Dixon Family
Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Essentials Box Xmas Campaign, we had a target goal of 80 boxes for 80 families connected to the GLO and we smashed that in under a week and are able to donate 90 boxes!
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What a wonderful legacy for your daughter Lisa. The therapy department offers unique provision for many families who would otherwise not be able to access those services.
The staff are all so dedicated. Thanks for this lovely blog. Hoping to go back to the GLO next year.
What a wonderful legacy for your daughter Lisa. The therapy department offers unique provision for many families who would otherwise not be able to access those services.
The staff are all so dedicated. Thanks for this lovely blog. Hoping to go back to the GLO next year.
Asante sana Lisa
What a wonderful blog to read from you Lisa .