Parents launch charity in memory of son

Archie was still smiling even when he was in hospital, his mum said

A couple have launched a charity in memory of their son, Archie, who spent his life in and out of hospital with a complex heart condition.

Charlie and Keith Miller, from Poundbury in Dorset, set up Archie's Warriors to create memories for children in long-term hospital care in Dorset and Hampshire.

Archie was 11 years old when he died in June 2024 following a "catastrophic stroke", his parents said.

"More needs to be done to makes sure these kids have more to remember than hospital stays and visits," Mrs Miller said.

Mr Miller said his son was a "lovely, lovely boy" who was "so kind and considerate", with a "great sense of humour".

"He was always looking out for other children and if there was any wrongdoing he would always stand up for others," he continued.

"Archie was an old soul in a young body. He was like an old man with the things he would come out with.

"He was the best son you could ever wish for."

Archie (right) loved being with his younger brother Leo

Mrs Miller said parents usually find out the gender of their baby at the 20-week scan but "we had no idea what we were about to face".

"Archie was diagnosed with tricuspid atresia at our 20-week scan which made the gender seem so unimportant," she said.

"They confirmed there and then that he only had three chambers in his heart and that he would need surgery as soon as he was born."

To their surprise Archie was born at a "regular weight" with a "normal colour".

This meant he was able to go home with his parents and did not need to have open heart surgery immediately.

However, at three months old it "became clear he was struggling", said Mrs Miller.

Archie had his surgery and was in hospital for almost three months.

He had another surgery on his seventh birthday and was "thriving", his parents said.

It all changed in January 2024, when he was meant to go to school "but he was vomiting continually and that's when the six-month stay in hospital started for us", said Mrs Miller.

Archie's parents said they wanted to give children more to remember than "just pin pricks, blood tests and constant scans".

They said Archie's Warriors intended to give children an "actual experience", such as a video message from a local footballer or boxer.

"It will give the kids a bit of encouragement when things are tough and long for them," said Mrs Miller.

"I think it would make a real difference if it comes from someone they admire.

"It's something exciting for them to look forward to."

Mr Miller is hoping to complete a 100-mile bike ride in Dorset on 13 September to raise money for the charity.