As some of you may know, my brother and his partner lost their son Frederick Thomas Gardner Welch, who was born still on 14th June 2023. Freddie was 38.6 weeks. Freddie weighed 8lbs. Freddie was perfect.

Tom and Jayne were able to spend time with Freddie, thanks to an Abi cold cot provided by Abigail’s Footsteps. The cold cot allowed me to meet my nephew, something I will forever be grateful for.

Tom and Jayne have already raised money for SANDS in Freddie’s memory (https://justgiving.com/fundraising/freddiewelch) and I too have run 29 miles in February. There are so many amazing charities out there that support grieving parents who have suffered a stillbirth, as well as providing teaching for those on the frontline, however Abigail’s Footsteps is one very close to our hearts.

Since 2010, Abigail's Footsteps have worked to improve the way bereaved parents are cared for by hospitals and to better educate midwives on how to care for grieving parents.

Abigail's Footsteps also help by creating sympathetic space for parents in hospitals, providing much needed equipment for parents to spend longer with their babies whilst also offering specialist baby loss counselling sessions.

Abigail’s Footsteps have continued to support Tom and Jayne in the immediate months following the loss of Freddie. Grief is a horrible thing, something no parent should have to experience. Grief can impact on each individual differently, and it is so important skills are taught in understanding and managing this grief. Abigail’s footsteps helped keep Tom and Jayne fighting as a family, support that is so vital.

I plan to trek the three peaks, in 24 hours, with my brother in tow and friends in order to fundraise to continue to support Abigail’s Footsteps support other families in their moment of need and to support midwives be able to support parents as best they can. We have been training for months, and weather and travel permitting, we hope to complete this within the 24 hours.

Please help us raise vital funds so we can continue to support bereaved families.

Thank you for reading and for your generosity.

www.abigailsfootsteps.co.uk