24th September at 11:07am, Oliver had decided that being in Mummys tummy wasn't as fun as some make out and made a dramatic appearance, He arrived over 9 weeks early at The Leeds General Infirmary weighing in at 3lb 9oz. Oliver suffered an IVH (Intraventricular hemorrhage in the brain) and other complications associated with a premature baby.

He was taken straight to Intensive Care where he spent two weeks being cared for by the amazing doctors, nurses and clinical staff. He was then transferred to the High Dependancy Neo Natal Unit at St James' as he no longer needed the intensive level care.

The mixed emotions we felt during this time were unreal, what superseded the best moment of our lives was the most worrying and challenging times that we've ever gone through together. The staff were truly amazing, and not only with the care and attention given to Oliver but the physical and emotional support they gave to us as (first time) parents. The long nights sat counting his breaths and studying the monitors and 'machine beeps' were made easier by the assurance and support and comfort from the staff, they really are angels.

I call Oliver 'my little soldier' but a good soldier needs his army behind him and the staff who looked after him are the best army in the world!

We now have Oliver home and have regular visits from the Neo Natal nurses who are monitoring things at home.

Now he's home he's still my little soldier and still needs his army behind him, which is now his family and friends. We've had physical and emotional support since getting him home but we'd like to give a donation to the two units (LGI ICU and St James' Neo Natal HDU) to allow them to purchase needed equipment and to help other families (provide special premature clothing for example) who will go through this in the future.

Please join Olivers Army and allow him to continue as my 'little soldier'

Thank you
Dan, Sarah and of course, Oliver
xxx