Henry Bromberg Award for Perseverance – Part 1

In July, Gaudio were contacted by Laura and Robert Bromberg to create a trophy in memory of their son, Henry. Henry was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome; a rare condition that means half of the heart is not fully developed. The condition is not correctable and although some treatments are possible the only long-term solution is a transplant. Henry sadly passed away in July 2016, at only 9 years of age, whilst waiting for a heart transplant.

Henry, who liked to be known as Henry ‘Dog’ Warrior, was a vibrant young boy with a captivating personality. He was an inspiration to all those that had the honour to meet him. His appearance on BBC Children in Need made a lasting impression on millions of viewers for his charisma and optimism. Henry raised thousands for charity and was an ambassador for Readathon (now Read for Good) after he encountered their books and storytellers whilst receiving treatment at Gloucester Royal Hospital. Despite numerous operations and hours spent in hospital Henry was not put off hospitals and aspired to become a Neurologist.

Laura and Bob, Henry’s parents, decided to create a trophy in honour of his bravery recognising the recipients for perseverance. One of the awards will be presented annually to a pupil at Deerhurst and Apperley C of E Primary School, which Henry attended, and the other for patients at the hospital where he received treatment.

Henry lived with his family in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, which is where Gaudio are based. After hearing about Henry, Gaudio’s Managing Director, Adam Hutchinson, decided it would be an honour to create the awards for such an incredible person.

“Hearing Henry’s story, how courageous and selfless he was, and what a positive impact he had on his chosen charity, he truly managed to inspire a nation with his infectious personality. How could we not want to be involved?” – Adam Hutchinson

Henry’s friends created the initial designs based around things that made them think of him. Their designs featured pugs, stars, rainbows, pink, and Henry’s catchphrase “I will never, ever, ever, ever, give up’. We were all impressed at the amazing designs, each of which could have been made into the final piece. After reviewing them, it was decided to use elements of all of the children’s designs and to work in a heart as it was for having half a heart that Henry came to be known.