Heartbreaking Story of Two Young Girls Orphaned After Losing Both Parents Within 18 Months
In a deeply tragic turn of events, 11-year-old twin sisters Isabelle and Emmy lost their mother, Hannah Whittall, just 18 months after their father passed away. Hannah, a devoted mother and a courageous woman, had been battling breast cancer while trying to protect her daughters from the harsh reality of her illness. Her husband, the twins’ father, had died the previous year due to pneumonia, leaving the family devastated.
Hannah, originally from Sutton Coldfield but later residing in Tamworth, underwent intensive treatment after her diagnosis. She endured chemotherapy and a double mastectomy in August 2024, and in September of the same year, she was declared cancer-free—a moment of relief and celebration for her family. Tragically, the reprieve was short-lived. Just a month later, her cancer returned aggressively, spreading to her bones. Despite her deteriorating health, Hannah remained resilient, cherishing every moment with her daughters and managing to spend one last Christmas at home with them.
By December, Hannah faced severe complications, including fluid buildup in her lungs and pneumonia. She was admitted to the hospital, where her condition worsened due to sepsis and the HMPV virus. Surrounded by her loved ones, she passed away on January 14, 2025. Her daughters were by her side, expressing their gratitude for all the love and care she had given them, a poignant reminder of the deep bond they shared with their mother.
Hannah’s brother, Thomas, described her as an incredible mother who was entirely devoted to her daughters. “Hannah was their world after losing their dad,” he said. “She took them everywhere, did everything with them, and was truly a super mum. They adored her.” The girls, grappling with the loss of both parents, found solace in the thought that their mother was now reunited with their father, as they believed she would look after him in heaven.
During her final weeks, Hannah was cared for by her own mother, Phyllis Whitsell, a retired nurse with 50 years of experience. Phyllis stayed by her daughter’s side at Good Hope Hospital, ensuring that Hannah was as comfortable as possible. Despite the hospital staff’s efforts, having her mother by her side brought Hannah great comfort during such a challenging time.
Thomas has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Isabelle and Emmy’s future care. The overwhelming kindness of the community has seen donations pour in, raising nearly £30,000 in just a few days. This generosity offers hope for the girls as they navigate life without their belove
d parents.