The mutual experience of having babies born sleeping and the common desire to give something back to the organisation that supported us has been the catalyst for this event. Sadly, this journey starts with the tragic loss of our baby girls; Olivia-Mae and Cecelia. SPRING supported and cared for both families as well as the babies during very difficult times. SPRING provide emotional and practical support to bereaved parents and families following the loss of a baby at any stage of pregnancy, at or just after birth, whatever the circumstances and however long ago. SPRING’s Moon and Star Bereavement Suites and SPRING Garden at St Mary’s Maternity Unit, Poole, provide a safe and private space, away from the main maternity wards, for parents and families to spend precious time with their baby before saying goodbye, and a place where they receive specialist support from trained bereavement midwives. Like most things, having someone to talk to who has also suffered what you are going through helps in the bereavement process. It was during this time that we discovered our shared aspiration to organise an event – the purpose of the event was threefold. Firstly, so at least once a year the world would remember our girls. Secondly, to promote awareness of SPRING and the immense work they do within our community. Finally, to raise much needed funds so they can continue their invaluable work. During his bereavement process Michael (or Micky) purchased a bike and quickly realised the holistic benefits of cycling. Fast-forward a few months to just after lockdown and a fairly flippant comment suggesting a bike ride to Paris for SPRING. Little did we know that Micky actually meant to Paris and back in September 2020 – thanks for the forewarning Micky! So, there we have it the creation of CYCLE FOR SPRING (CFS): • 4 days (Sep 10 – 13) • 424 miles • 11 riders • 2 support drivers • 2 ferry crossings • Multiple sore arses and punctures What could go wrong? Well, most of us are less than novice cyclist and the last bikes we owned were probably BMX’s. Nevertheless, they call it a challenge for a reason, its not supposed to be easy and a life lived in 2020 is full of challenges, what is one more to the list. You can follow the progression of CYCLE FOR SPRING via social media and the SPRING website, as the CFS team will be posting regular updates before, during and after the event. So, where will your generous donations go? SPRING is entirely self-funded, so your money will help to fund essential items such as cooling mats and memory boxes, as well as much needed specialist counselling sessions, training, and the maintenance of SPRING’s aforementioned bereavement suites. SPRING know they can’t make everything better, but they aim to make sure things aren’t worse for bereaved parents, and your donations will help them achieve that. Many thanks in advance for taking the time to read our page and a special thank you to those that donate and support this wonderful organisation. Micky, Chris, and the CFS Team.