We found out last year that we were pregnant just after our wedding in June, we were surprised when we found out we were lucky enough to be expecting twins!!  Not only that but identical twin boys!!  For anyone that doesn't know, having twins is high risk and identical twins even more so! We were seen weekly at Leeds General Infirmary to keep a close eye on the progress, which also meant we got to see our boys once a week, it wasn't the most easy or straightforward pregnancy but our boys kept us going. 

Just before the third trimester, Jess started to experience high blood pressure which ultimately turned out to be early onset preeclampsia and was admitted to hospital.  Our boys and Jess were being looked after by a brilliant team at Burnley Hospital.  They were monitored closely, until one evening they scanned the boys as normal and unfortunately we were told the 5 dreaded words no-one ever wants to hear....I'm sorry there's no heartbeat, Noah had gone.  We were devastated, but then told that our other boy - Freddie was also struggling and we needed to deliver him quickly to try and save him.  

Freddie fought bravely for three hours, until he couldn't fight anymore and he needed to be with his brother and passed away.  We were looked after amazingly by the hospital, and one of the most important things were given was our two beautiful bears from Aching Arms.  They were in the cot looking after our boys and gave us something to hold when we left hospital.  No-one expects to leave hospital without their baby, but we had some small comfort to hold these two small bears.  We continue to have our bears at times when things become difficult or we want to remember our boys.  By running this half marathon, we want to give other families that find themselves in the same position as us some comfort, but also have some small part of a legacy for our beautiful boys - Freddie and Noah, together always, always loved.  Aching Arms not only donate over 5,500 bears each year to hospitals but also provide support groups and a helpline for families in their darkest times, we hope you can help in any way to support them to continue this very important work.