My very first visit to Haiti provided some of my  starkest memories. As a neonatologist in the UK, I was suddenly thrown into unfamiliar territory- with an overwhelming sense of helplessness-  in a country which lacks even the most basic health care. Babies were dying- and there was nothing I could do. Even among those who survived, many were left with long-term disabilities. I remember meeting baby Jocelyn for the first time- a baby with kernicterus (brain damage) - which could have been prevented with early detection of jaundice and treatment with phototherapy. In my years of training, I had never seen such abnormal posturing at such a young age- when the arching of the head almost touches the back- it was heart breaking. We at HHA were determined to prevent further cases, and reduce death rates. Now, after years,  with the help of our supporters, we can proudly say that the neonatal unit is a highly regarded regional centre, with babies being brought from up to 75 miles away. We can offer CPAP (respiratory support) and phototherapy among many others. We sourced a transcutaneous bilirubinometer and test every single baby on the unit daily for jaundice so we can start phototherapy promptly. We have managed to reduce kernicterus from at least one case a month - to none in the last year.

We want to keep helping more babies, but the neonatal unit is overcapacity on a daily basis. On my last visit, weighing scales were used as cots, with several babies sharing - and baskets holding tiny babies were placed on the floor- due to the lack of space and resources.  The neonatal unit desperately needs expanding but we need to raise the necessary funds for the building, equipment and staffing costs.

On September 16-17th, I will part of an HHA team undertaking the 3 peaks challenge- so please spur me  on by supporting the work.  Those who know me well, know that I am not an avid hiker- and this - will - hurt - ALOT. We will be climbing the Three Peaks (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon), highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales - in 24 hours!!!!! - through day and night. Please support our work and donate however much you feel able to. Every penny  makes a difference.

Thank you

Cheryl x