Celebrating one year of Dilly's Den
A party was held to celebrate one year since a specially designed rooftop space for our youngest patients was opened.
The space, known as "Dilly's Den", was built in memory of Dillan Ramsey-Aksehi, who spent much of his life undergoing treatment for leukaemia at Great Ormond Street Hospital and The Royal London Hospital during 2020.
Dillan's brave battle with leukaemia came to an end in summer 2024 and his mum, Amy, tirelessly fundraised for an outdoor space that was officially opened in June 2025.
To celebrate it's one year anniversary, a party was held in the healing space. Children enjoyed arts and crafts, a make-up stand, photobooth and some dinosaur-themed entertainment with music performance in "Dilly's Den".
Zoe Tribble, associate director of nursing for children at the Royal London Hospital, said: "Dilly's Den gives children who spend long periods in hospital a chance to get outside, play, and enjoy time with their families.
"For some, it is the closest thing to normal life during months or even years of treatment. Thanks to Amy Ramsey's generosity, it has become a much-valued space that makes a real difference to children and families every day."
Each part of Dilly's Den was specially curated by Amy and the hospital's play team and includes all the essentials needed for seriously ill children to enjoy the space safely.
Dilly's Den features:
- Pathways accessible by both wheelchair and hospital beds
- Power sockets for medical support, including oxygen and medicine drips
- A sensory zone for children with special needs
- A dedicated space for end-of-life patients to experience fresh air and sunlight
- An indoor mural inspired by Dillan's favourite toys and nurses
Speaking at the party, Amy said: " The launch of Dilly’s Den last year meant so much to me, and learning the impact the space has had over the past 12 months means even more.
“I want this to be an annual event, every year around Dillan’s birthday. I want to throw a party for all of you, because you deserve it."
The story was covered by ITV News London and you can watch the piece here (starts at around 11 minutes in).