Why are dry suits so important?
For many children undergoing cancer treatment, central lines and medical tubes are a vital part of their care. But they also come with a big restriction — they can’t get wet.
​
That means no baths, no paddling pools in the summer, no splashing with siblings, and no dip in the sea. Everyday childhood moments that most families take for granted suddenly become off limits.
Dry suits change that.
​
These specially designed suits keep central venous lines safe and dry, allowing children to enjoy water again, whether that’s a warm bubble bath, a play in the paddling pool, or splashing in the sea. They give children back comfort, fun, freedom, and a sense of normality during treatment.
​
What is a Central Venous Line?
​
A central venous line (such as a Hickman line) is a special tube that goes into a large vein near the heart. It helps children receive treatment and have blood tests without repeated needles.
Because the line enters the body, it’s essential it stays dry to avoid infection, which is why dry suits are so important.
​
How Much Do Dry Suits Cost?
​
Dry suits are usually custom-made and can cost around £350–£400, depending on size and adjustments needed. This cost can put them out of reach for many families, which is why we are proud to fund dry suits for children who need them.
​
A dry suit may seem like a small thing, but for a child and their family, it can bring comfort, joy, and special memories at a time when they matter most.
​
How to Apply
​
If you would like to apply for a dry suit, please complete the form below.
We will aim to respond within 5 working days.
​
Already Have a Dry Suit?
​
If you have a dry suit your child no longer needs and would like to pass it on, we work closely with Face Everything And Rise (F.E.A.R), who lovingly re-home and loan dry suits to other families.
​
To donate a dry suit, please email Kim at:
kim@faceeverything.co.uk
​
If you only need a dry suit for a short period, F.E.A.R may also be able to loan one to you.
​
Young Lives Vs Cancer Social Worker
“"I am also so thrilled that you offer dry suits as I support families who live by the coast and for some of the children being able to get in the sea is so important for their emotional well being, you providing these suits will enable them to continue to do this"
Arley's Mum, Claire
“the wet suit arrived while Arley was in hospital with another infection just before half term. It was a lovely gift for him to return home to. He put the suit on straight away and was parading around the living room in it. A few days later, we went to a lake in Suffolk for the day and Arley was straight in the water with it, splashing around and paddle boarding. It was a heartwarming moment to see our boy back in his element. We couldn’t get him out of the water because he was having so much fun with his brother and friend. Thank you so much for organising this and to Vicky at the charity. We are hoping to spend many more days in and on the water.”
Young Lives Vs Cancer Social Worker
"the dry suits have also allowed children with a central line to play in the paddling pool in the garden between treatment and this has given them a much needed boost again the families are so grateful for this"