I’m taking part in the 31 Miles in October challenge to help protect babies from group B Strep infection — the leading cause of severe infection in newborns in the UK.

My beautiful Billie Mary Alice was born with group b strep. She was born on October 26th 1996 and tragically died on October 27th 1996 - aged just 1 day.

My heart and my world was ripped apart- everything was taken away. My baby girl was taken away. My plans were taken away. My life felt like it had too, been taken away.

Sadly my concerns at the hospital were not listened too, I had numerous things that I had pointed out to the midwives. Each time I was coldly dismissed and made to feel like a fussy first time mum.

Sadly these concerns of mine turnt out to be signs of Group B Strep. By the time they began to listen and take notice, it was sadly too late for my baby girl.

I so wish they’d listened to me.

Every time I write this it takes me right back to when my world was destroyed.

I cry so much for my baby.

Nobody should go through what I went through. It truly broke me.

Please let’s protect our babies- they truly deserve it x

Most group B Strep infections are preventable with better awareness and access to testing, but too many families are still affected. That’s why I’ve chosen to support Group B Strep Support, a charity dedicated to raising awareness, providing information, and campaigning for change.

They won’t stop until every pregnant woman and person has access to information, testing and care they need to protect their baby, and I’m proud to be part of that mission.

By sponsoring me, you’re helping to protect more babies, raise awareness and change the future for families across the UK.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart xx