The nation is holding its breath in sorrow and hope tonight as devastating news emerges about 8-year-old Isla Screaton Kilpatrick — the radiant little girl whose courage and unforgettable smile became a symbol of joy for millions during BBC’s DIY SOS.

Isla, who lives with the extremely rare genetic condition Mandibuloacral Dysplasia (a unique mutation making her the only known person in the UK with this variant), has seen her health deteriorate sharply in recent days. Her single mum, Stacey, has confirmed that Isla’s brittle bones, mobility challenges, and the premature aging effects on her major organs have worsened significantly. She is now seriously ill and currently receiving intensive care in hospital.

The heartbreaking update comes just months after the country fell in love with Isla during the opening episode of the revived DIY SOS series, which aired in October 2025. Stacey had nominated her family for the show in the hope of creating a more accessible home that would give her daughter greater independence despite the daily struggles caused by her condition.

When Nick Knowles and the DIY SOS team arrived in Aylestone, Leicester, the response from the public was overwhelming. A near-record 2,000 volunteers applied to help, and around 160 tradespeople worked tirelessly to transform the family home in just days. The bespoke adaptations — lowered light switches, door handles, a downstairs bathroom, wider doorways, and stair access improvements — were designed specifically around Isla’s needs.

The moment of the big reveal will forever be etched in the nation’s memory. As Isla explored her beautifully adapted new home, her face lit up with pure delight. With the biggest smile, she turned to the camera and said the words that melted hearts across the country:

“I love it. I can get around the house more easily…”

Those simple, heartfelt words captured everything: gratitude, triumph, and the quiet courage of a little girl who had spent much of her life crawling or needing help for the smallest tasks. Viewers described breaking down in tears within minutes of the episode, hailing Isla as “a little superstar” and praising the extraordinary kindness of the community that rallied around her.

Stacey later shared how the transformation had exceeded all expectations, giving Isla the freedom to walk up stairs instead of crawling and to reach things on her own for the first time. The new home was meant to be a safe, joyful space for whatever time Isla had ahead.

Doctors had previously warned the family that after the age of seven, the risks of serious complications — including strokes and heart problems — would increase significantly due to the progressive nature of her condition. In recent days, those fears have become reality. Isla’s illness has taken a sudden and severe turn for the worse, and she is now fighting in hospital under close medical supervision.

Tonight, the family released a short, emotional statement asking for continued love and prayers:

“Isla is the strongest, most joyful little girl. She has taught us all to celebrate the smallest victories — like turning on a light switch by herself. Right now she is very unwell in hospital and we are by her side every moment. We are so grateful for the love and support she has received from everyone since DIY SOS. Please keep her in your thoughts.”

Nick Knowles, visibly moved, posted on social media: “Isla’s smile and those words ‘I love it. I can get around the house more easily…’ touched every single one of us. She is the bravest little soul. Sending all our love to Isla, Stacey and the family at this incredibly difficult time. Stay strong, little one.”

Across Britain, tributes are pouring in. Clips of Isla’s DIY SOS moment are being reshared thousands of times, with people writing messages like: “She gave us hope. Now we’re all praying for her.” “That smile… we can’t lose her.” “Britain is crying with you tonight, Stacey.”

Earlier this year, cruel online hoaxes had falsely claimed Isla had passed away shortly after the episode, forcing Stacey to speak out to protect her daughter’s memory. Tonight’s news is real and raw — not a hoax, but a genuine medical crisis that has the whole country holding its breath.

Isla’s story has once again highlighted the urgent need for greater awareness, research funding, and support for families living with ultra-rare genetic conditions. The DIY SOS team has reiterated their love and support, promising to stand by the family in any way they can.

As Isla fights in hospital, the nation remembers her not as a tragic statistic, but as the bright, determined little girl who reminded us all what matters most: the joy found in small freedoms, the power of community, and the unbreakable spirit of a child who never stopped smiling.

“I love it. I can get around the house more easily…” Those words, once a celebration of victory, are now being whispered as a prayer for strength across the country.

Please keep Isla in your hearts tonight.