Restoring Immune Systems Rebuilding Lives
Born without a working immune system
Helping children born with life-threatening immune conditions rebuild their immune systems through stem cell transplantation.
When children are born with life-threatening immune conditions, their bodies are unable to fight infections that most people recover from. If diagnosed and treated in time, a stem cell transplant can give these children a chance to rebuild their immune system and live healthier lives.
The Bubble Foundation is a children’s stem cell transplant charity supporting children and families through this complex journey. Based at Newcastle’s Great North Children’s Hospital, we provide practical and emotional support for families receiving specialist transplant care, while funding research that improves treatments and outcomes for children across the UK and worldwide.
Stem cell transplantation usually involves intensive chemotherapy followed by a bone marrow or stem cell transplant, replacing faulty or missing immune cells with healthy donor cells that can fight infection. The treatment journey can be long and challenging, but with the right care, support and research, more children can survive and recover.
Through family support, specialist resources and pioneering research into paediatric transplantation and immune restoration, The Bubble Foundation helps give children the best possible chance of rebuilding their immune systems.
Fighting for children like...
Diagnosed with HLH, passed away in June 2025 | See more
Diagnosed with HLH (Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis) at one month old | See more
XLP1 | See more
APDS2, Lexi died aged 14 in 2025 | See more
Imagine being isolated in a hospital room for months at a time, not being able to see friends or loved ones. Your support helps The Bubble Foundation research treatments and fund life saving equipment as well as toys and games for patients with life-threatening immune deficiencies.
See our patient storiesFundraisers
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Steptember Challenge 2026
Take 300,000 steps this September and help change children's lives We're now welcoming individuals, families, businesses and teams to join the Bubble Foundation's...
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The Big Bubble Summer Challenge
The Big Bubble Summer is a 60-day challenge to raise £6,000 by celebrating summer through fun, ready-made events. Host gatherings, make memories with friends and...
Read more: The Big Bubble Summer Challenge -
Kev Grahamslaw
I’m taking part in the Newcastle-Gateshead 10k, Kingston Park Half-Marathon and Newcastle Quayside 10K all on behalf of our amazing Ellie who has shown more courage in...
Read more: Kev Grahamslaw
News
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Aldi’s ‘Ambassador of Joy’ helps keep The Bubble floating
20 August 2026 Aldi has appointed London bus driver and local legend Ricki Reid as its new ‘Ambassador of Joy’, celebrating the smiles and laughter he has brought to...
Read more: Aldi’s ‘Ambassador of Joy’ helps keep The Bubble floating -
Children with rare immune disorders find their herd
Many children who have undergone stem cell transplants to restore their immune systems after being diagnosed with rare immune disorders have found their herd. It can...
Read more: Children with rare immune disorders find their herd -
Supergirl star Eve Ridley brings magic to Ward 3
There was a very special visitor on Ward 3 at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary this week, as local actress Eve Ridley stopped by to meet some of the children and...
Read more: Supergirl star Eve Ridley brings magic to Ward 3 -
Bubble Children take on the Transplant Games 2026
Many of our Bubble children had a lovely weekend at this year’s British Transplant Games in Sheffield , joining children and families from across the country to...
Read more: Bubble Children take on the Transplant Games 2026 -
XLA Research Revealed
Current treatments for XLA are not enough Ben Shillitoe - Consultant in Paediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology: "I am pleased to share our latest research...
Read more: XLA Research Revealed -
Lexis Letter
Lexi’s Letter was written by Lexi in December 2024 during a long stay on Ward 3. Lexi worked with Touch Design as creative director for the animation of her letter...
Read more: Lexis Letter
Latest Videos
Our vision
A world where children with life-threatening immune conditions have the chance, not just to survive, but to thrive.
Our mission
To rally support to fund life-saving treatments, equipment, resources, family-centred care, and comforts like toys and games, that make a big difference when our little superheroes and their families are isolated during their hospital stay.
Our purpose
We are here to give children who have life-threatening immune conditions, the best possible chance to make a full recovery; and to make life a little easier for families navigating the trauma of a poorly child.