I am raising money for Shine in memory of our baby girl. 

In 2017, we had our first round of IVF and we were lucky enough for it to result in a pregnancy. Everything was going as it should be and there were no issues at the 12 week scan. Unfortunately, our lives were shattered upon having the 20 week scan. The scan showed our baby had a severe neural tube defect. The bottom of her spine was open and exposed and in addition to this she had fluid on her brain.  We were given time to process this information and what it would mean for us and our baby. The outlook for her wasn’t hopeful  and the specialist couldn’t say if she would actually survive the trauma of birth and if she did survive she would be subject to multiple operations and these would be ongoing throughout her life. For us this didn’t seem fair or just and we made what seemed like an impossible decision and decided to end the pregnancy at 22 weeks. 

This was an extremely difficult and trying time for not only us but our close family and friends.  Grief can take you to dark places and for me the prospect of doing something for this charity kept me going. Each and every penny means so much to me and I cannot express how grateful I am so your donations. 

With your donations I want to help others who have similar experiences and to also enable those born with Spina bifida to have the best chance at living life.

Shine provides specialist support from before birth and throughout the life of anyone living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, as well as to parents, families, carers and professional care staff. Shine enables people to get the best out of life.Everything we do is made possible by our generous supporters. Your fundraising efforts help individuals and families in your local communities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Every donation has the potential for profound impact.THANK YOU for supporting Shine!