Theo James

On Friday 11th November 2016 our baby boy Theo James was born sleeping

We have found ourselves on a life changing journey and one we would never have expected to be on ever in our lifetime, a journey where we had to find strength that we didn't even know existed and discovered friendship, love and support that we never thought we would have to call on.

Losing Theo James was devastating for both myself and Sarah and we are now very different people in so many different ways.  We are determined to make every day count moving forward into 2017, to raise awareness of the tragic loss for all parents who lose a baby to Stillbirth and Neonatal death and to remember Theo James in as many ways as we can!

Our little man wasn't able to have the life we had intended for him, at 34 weeks in a pregnancy with no complications, no ill health and with no reason or explanation for his death, we were faced with such a sad and life changing journey, as are many parents across the UK.

Sands played the most amazing part in journey, through providing a room at the hospital called the Snowdrop Suite, allowing us to have privacy, with a private room and garden, allowing myself and Sarah and all of our family and friends the opportunity to spend valuable time with our son Theo James after his birth.

Sands provided a Memory Box, allowing us to take pictures of Theo, a kit to take hand and foot prints and to collect a locket of his hair to name only a few - something we will always remember and such a special offering that needs to be in place for other parents now and in the future - although this didn't take away the pain, it allowed us to collect and make memories for Theo at a time when you feel lost and very alone.

Sands provide guidance and support, to everyone effected by Stillbirth and Neonatal death, from parents to grand parents, even assisting with how to tell siblings who will be effected in the family - offering support groups locally and nationally and someone to talk to when you feel you have no one around you that "understands" - to us and to many others I am sure, this has been invaluable, as well as funding research into these tragic losses.

Sands and Children Are Butterflies allowed us to make the journey we found ourselves on a peaceful one, they rounded off the edges and made us feel supported when we needed it the most, they gave us access to a support network and put their arms around us when we needed them

NOW is the time for me to step outside of my comfort zone (being afraid of heights)  and I would like to do something for SANDS.....I am going to take part in a 15,000ft Skydive, the highest jump in the UK, to raise money and awareness for such an amazing charity that will remain very close to our hearts now and forever

Please show your support for me and get behind me with sponsorship, so we can play our part in making sure this support network and offering is always there for couples like us when they need it the most!!

Thank you - every single one of you :)