The Stories Behind the BOV Volleyball Marathon: Meet Vanessa and Francesca

Every parent dreams of knowing their children will always be cared for.

For William, that hope became one of life’s biggest concerns and, ultimately, one of its greatest comforts.

William is the father of twin sisters Vanessa and Francesca, and in this moving story he reflects on the family’s journey from uncertainty to reassurance.

A Journey Into the Unknown

When Vanessa and Francesca were born, William and his wife were never told that their daughters had a disability.

As the twins grew older, however, they began noticing that the girls were struggling to communicate. Over time, it became clear that they would need specialised support and constant supervision.

Like countless parents in similar situations, they simply got on with what needed to be done.

Their daughters became the centre of family life.

The Challenges Behind Closed Doors

William speaks honestly about the reality of caring for Vanessa and Francesca.

There were sleepless nights, constant worry, and moments that tested the whole family. As the girls grew older, they also experienced periods of aggressive behaviour, making everyday life even more challenging.

Yet through it all, their parents remained devoted to giving them the very best life possible.

One question, however, never left William’s mind.

“Who will take care of them when we no longer can?”

It’s a question that many parents of persons with disabilities quietly carry with them every day.

A Home Where They Can Thrive

Today, Vanessa and Francesca live together in one of the residences operated by Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

Their parents continue to visit regularly, and although they are still a huge part of each other’s lives, something beautiful has happened.

The twins now see Id-Dar tal-Providenza as their home.

With the care, structure, and support they receive every day, the girls have flourished. William explains that even the aggressive behaviour they once experienced has improved significantly thanks to the patience, expertise, and consistency of the staff.

Although Vanessa and Francesca still cannot communicate through words, their parents don’t need words to know how they feel.

They see it in their smiles. They see it in their routines. They see it in the lives they now lead.

More Than Care

When William speaks about Id-Dar tal-Providenza, one word comes to mind.

“A blessing.”

For him and his family, the residence has provided far more than professional care.

It has given his daughters opportunities, stability, and a life filled with purpose.

And perhaps most importantly, it has surrounded them with people who care for them with genuine affection.

To William, the staff are far more than caregivers.

They have become a loving family for Vanessa and Francesca.

A Future Filled with Hope

Every family deserves the reassurance of knowing their loved ones are safe, valued, and happy.

For William, that reassurance has become a reality through Id-Dar tal-Providenza.

This year’s BOV Volleyball Marathon takes place between Thursday 16th and Saturday 18th July at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali.

By supporting the volleyball marathon, you’re helping residents like Vanessa and Francesca continue to enjoy lives filled with care, friendship, and opportunity while giving families something that cannot be measured:

The comfort of knowing their loved ones are exactly where they belong.