Back in October 2018, my son Felix was born 6 weeks premature after a very tricky pregnancy. He entered the world at 10am weighing just 4.9lbs. 

The story starts a few weeks earlier when Jess, my wife and Felix’s mum, unfortunately suffered a PPROM (Preterm Premature Rupture of the Membranes) at 18 weeks gestation. At the time, the consultants told us the chance of survival for the baby was very slim and in all likelihood, Jess would go into labour. Weeks went past however, and the baby never came, he continued to grow and the pregnancy continued, albeit not as planned. On the 13th October 2018, Jess began to feel some pains in the night, and we rushed off to the maternity ward at Gloucester Royal Hospital. 4 hours later, Felix entered the world. 

Jess and I had been warned that because Felix had nearly no amniotic fluid around him for half the pregnancy, he may not be able to take his first breath or even breathe unaided at all. We were also told he may have life limiting disabilities for the rest of his life. But shortly after 10am, Jess pushed one last time and Felix came out. We waited a few seconds, which felt like hours, and heard the sound we had hoped to hear, Felix’s first breath and cry. After a quick cuddle with his mummy, the paediatricians had to take him as his breathing had become strained. He was admitted to the neonatal ward, receiving the most incredible care and support we could imagine. 

Felix spent the first 3 weeks of his life at the neonatal unit, which is where I first discovered the Scoo-B-Doo charity. 

Scoo-B-Doo was established in 1982 by a small group of grateful parents, doctors and nurses. Today, the registered charity is still run entirely by volunteers and supports the Neonatal Unit at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital in caring for sick and premature babies from Gloucestershire and beyond.

From day one, the charity has been actively fundraising to provide equipment and essential items. Over 80% of the equipment used on the ward every day has been funded by Scoo-B-Doo, helping to ensure the babies are given the best possible care. 100% of every donation goes to help the wards tiny patients and their families.

4 years later, Felix is now a bubbly little boy who likes football, running, jumping, squash, tennis, superheroes, fast cars, steam trains and of course, Paw Patrol! He suffers no ill effects from his premature birth or Jess’ PPROM. 

Gloucester Royal will sadly have to continue to admit and treat babies who need additional help, but your donation can ensure that the ward is well funded and equipment like monitors and incubators can be bought and the babies and their families can be well supported.