Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

As you may know, back in December 2018 Adam decided to make a dramatic entrance to the world 14 weeks before his due date and having a baby born so prematurely was an emotional rollercoaster we never dreamt we would experience.

He was in NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) for 12 weeks in 2 hospitals before he came home with us in March, just before his due date, and through that time we had some extremely difficult days but every single milestone he reached was such an achievement. 

Adam has battled against several concerning medical issues including brain bleeds from birth, a hole in his heart (thankfully now resolved) as well as chronic lung disease and he also had three blood transfusions while in hospital so his first weeks were a very scary time for all of us.

Although some of these conditions are being continuously monitored at hospital appointments, we are thrilled to have a happy little boy who brings us so much love and joy every day with his huge grin and giggles. Adam has shown so much resilience in his tiny life, we will always be proud to be his parents.

During our time in hospital, though we have an amazing network of family and friends who supported us continuously, after Paul had to return to work shortly after Adam's birth, Bliss volunteers took the time to speak with me during days which could be extremely lonely and emotionally challenging. Along with the amazing nurses, Bliss provided advice on how to get involved in Adam's care and I became to feel like I was able to look after my child more independently in an environment where most normal parental duties are simply not always possible. In all honesty, even changing his nappy was a privilege but not without it's challenges while he was in an incubator covered in wires! The literature and helpline that Bliss coordinate also no doubt provide much needed reassurance and information for other parents in a similar situation to ourselves. 

Myself and my mum (Paul is at a wedding that evening but will be there in spirit!) will be walking the Bliss London Little Lights Walk on November 16th which is the eve of World Prematurity Day. We would be most grateful for anyone who is able to sponsor us and Adam in his first fundraising venture and have no doubt that the money we raise will be put to excellent use for a cause so close to our hearts- we know not all families are as lucky as we have been.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our page and another huge thank you if you are able to make a donation! We are all very grateful! Xxx