WHEN they were told there was nothing more doctors could do, the Parnell family fought to make the most of the precious time they had left together.

But when Chris Parnell, dad to Olivia, 11, and Emily, 14, lost his battle with cancer two years ago, family life was turned upside down.

Mum Karen said: “Chris was a very hands-on dad who played such a huge part in our lives. The girls adored him. He tried to appreciate every day and taught us to do the same. It is so very noticeable we are now just a three.”

In support of BBC Children in Need, Karen, Emily and Olivia have courageously spoken out about the devastating effect of losing a loved one and the difference Dorset bereavement charity Mosaic has made to their lives.

Bournemouth Echo journalist Chris had twice battled Hodgkin's lymphoma and was diagnosed with cancer again in 2014. This time, the family were told the overwhelming news there was nothing more doctors could do and the keen birdwatcher and Bruce Springsteen fan was given between six and 18 months to live.

Chris lost his battle in hospital within just five months of the diagnosis.

Olivia said “When we lost dad, I was really upset but I was really confused at the same time.”

Karen explained: “In the first few weeks you are in a state of shock and go into auto pilot with all the practical things you have to do. We just carried on. It isn’t until a little later that the true reality of the situation dawns on you.”

The girls were introduced to Mosaic and took part in bereavement counselling sessions, a residential stay in Swanage and various activity days.

They have explained how the charity helped them understand their feelings, particularly the creative counselling sessions.

Olivia said the anger she felt after her dad died was eased by taking part in a group session at a weekend camp. Each child drew a picture of their anger before pinning it up and throwing clay at it to release their negative feelings.

The girls also enjoyed making memory jars in tribute to Chris with coloured salt representing special family memories. These memories include their dad's sense of humour, his positivity and love, their holidays in France, bird watching and walking at the lakes.

CEO of Mosaic Margaret Hannibal said: “When a child loses a parent or a loved one it can have a profound effect on that child's life. Sharing their experience and talking openly about their feelings can help them to understand their emotions and help them to feel less isolated.”

The Parnell family will tonight share their story on BBC Children in Need which has provided the charity with a three-year grant of £60,000.

Since 2007, Mosaic has supported more than 900 children and young people across Dorset.

In Dorset, it is estimated that 2,500 children will be bereaved by the death of a close relative each year of which 250 may need the support of a service like Mosaic.

Margaret explained death can often be ‘the elephant in the room’ but not talking can leave a child struggling with their grief.

Olivia said: “I felt a bit lonely because I didn’t know anyone who this has happened to but when we went to the Mosaic camp, everyone there had something happen. You realise there are actually other people in the same position and you feel very supported. The counselling really helps.”

Emily added: “It is there all the time. When something happens, not being able to tell dad about it is very hard. I went really quiet and I didn’t really speak to anyone.

“I would say to people not to bottle it up, to start talking to people as soon as you can because though you may not feel like you want to, it does really help.”

For more information about the charity, to volunteer or to donate, go to mosaicfamilysupport.org.uk or call 01258 837071.