At 2 weeks old our daughter Ottilie was diagnosed with Intestinal Malrotation with Volvulus. Malrotation is an abnormality of the bowel and Volvulus is a complication of malrotation and occurs when the bowel twists so the blood supply to that part of the bowel is cut off. We were extremely lucky that the A&E team of Chelsea and Westminster (C&W) admitted Ottie into hospital for tests, despite not showing typical symptoms, and within hours found she had this condition. Ottie was operated on that day and their expertise saved her life.

We therefore want to support C&W by raising money for research into a condition called Necrotising Enterocolitis (NEC) which is the second most common cause of death in Western Neonatal Intensive Care Units. NEC is fundamentally a gangrene of the gut and babies who are born prematurely, or, like Ottie, undergo serious bowel surgery, are particularly susceptible.

Henry and I are teaming up with others at C&W to do the London to Brighton bike ride. We have yet to set a time goal but are asking for sponsorship to spur us on! As a team we are aiming to raise £25,000 towards this research into predicting the causes of, improving treatment for and prevention of NEC. This target will fund a Neonatal Research nurse for a whole year.

We thank you for supporting us in this cause!

Kate & Henry