When I had my first midwife appointment, I was told that my records showed I had previously carried Group B Strep (GBS). I had never even heard of it before and had no idea what it was or what it could mean for my pregnancy and my baby.

Because of this, my birth plan had to be centred around being induced and having an IV of antibiotics during labour, before my baby was born. At the time, it was a lot to take in, especially when I had never even heard of GBS before.

Looking back, I feel incredibly lucky that it was picked up and clearly noted on my medical records. Had it not been identified, things could have ended up very differently for my baby.

This experience made me realise just how important awareness, testing and information around Group B Strep can be. No parent should have to find out about something so important by chance, and I want to help raise awareness so that other families are informed and have the opportunity to protect their babies.

That’s why I’m fundraising — to help raise awareness of Group B Strep and support work that could make a real difference to other families.

They won’t stop until all pregnant women and people have access to the information, testing and care they need to protect their baby, and I’m proud to be part of that mission.

They are working towards a future where everyone is informed about group B Strep in pregnancy, offered a test, and supported to recognise the signs of infection in newborns. They are also driving progress towards a maternal vaccine to stop serious infections and save lives.

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