A GIRL from Kidderminster is providing a local voice for a national Christmas campaign which has been launched by the Eczema Outreach Support (EOS) charity.
The organisation helps children and young people living with eczema across the UK.
Lily Realf, nine, gives her voice to the charity’s Christmas video and hopes her involvement will help others feel less alone.
She said: “I took part because I wanted people to know that they’re not the only ones with eczema.”
Lily is one of six children from all across the UK whose voices feature in The Itch Before Christmas – a reimagined, six-verse version of The Night Before Christmas telling the story of a child with eczema who wants to speak to Santa about a very important wish.
Featuring a bespoke creation from children’s illustrator Clare Elsom, the campaign aims to raise awareness of the often unseen emotional impact of eczema including isolation, anxiety and the feeling of being ‘different’ from peers.
The campaign will also raise funds for EOS’ support programmes, including its online friendship group for children, the High 5 Club.
Lily’s mum, Rachel, said the opportunity meant a great deal to her daughter.
She said: “Lily feels like she is part of the EOS team, so she was so proud to be asked to take part in the campaign and help spread awareness of the charity and all that they do.”
For Lily, EOS has become a place of friendship and support.
Lily added: “EOS is important to me because I’ve been able to get to know the children on the High 5 Club video calls and they’ve become my friends.”
Rachel said the charity has also made a real difference to their family.
“EOS is a great support to families and has been a lovely way for Lily to meet other children, both in person and virtually, who know what she is going through,” she added.
“She really enjoys the monthly calls, as they are fun but supportive too.”
Suzi Holland, CEO of Eczema Outreach Support, said Lily’s involvement reflected the heart of the campaign.
“Lily’s courage and kindness remind us why our work matters,” she added.
“Eczema can leave children feeling isolated at a time when they should feel carefree and included.
“By sharing her story, Lily is helping us shine a light on the emotional impact of eczema and on the life-changing difference friendship and community can make.”
Eczema affects around one in five children. Physical symptoms include itching, pain, infections and bleeding, but it also has a significant emotional and social impact.
EOS provides practical help, emotional support, family events, school workshops and peer sessions, all free of charge.
The Christmas campaign encourages the public to donate and help EOS continue providing a lifeline to families like Lily’s.
Visit eos.org.uk/christmas-2025/ to watch the video and to donate to the cause.
