I cannot believe I’m writing this, as at the start of the year I couldn’t even run to the end of the road, without being out of breathe. But this October, me, my dad and Lyd are taking part in the Bournemouth HALF MARATHON 🏃🏼‍♀️. All in support of SPRING and in memory of our little Luca🌟.

For those that don’t know, we sadly lost Luca in October 2023, when he was born sleeping at 40 weeks + 5 days. SPRING truly became our rocks and safe space, helping us navigate a journey of loss we never thought we would be on. Thanks to them, we have so many wonderful memories to look back on with Luca and the support and care they gave us is something we will forever be grateful for.

The charity also supports a counselling service, I can’t imagine were I would be without this, my counsellor has helped me in more ways than I can explain, helping me understand so many difficult thoughts and emotions. As well as this they organise so many special events throughout the year, allowing families to remember there little ones in a safe space.

SPRING also care for you in any future pregnancies.

In January 2024, we found out we were expecting our second little boy, Bodhi. Pregnancy after loss was the hardest journey, navigating the constant battle between hope and fear. But again we didn’t do this journey alone, SPRING were there every step of the way, for every consultant appointment, scan, text message, phone call, even arranging any additional appointments we wished for and shared all the tears and smiles with us.

Bodhi arrived safely in September and was delivered by the same SPRING midwife who looked after his big brother, it couldn’t have been more special 🌙.

Once again the support has continued, through post partum and beyond.

SPRING truly make the hardest journey, feel less lonely and also share the joy of the happiest one with you.

Any donation is hugely appreciated.

Thank you,

Jess, Dave & Lyd 🌸

(Theo is also taking part in the half marathon, after finishing his own challenge for Abigail’s Footsteps).

SPRING was established in 1998 to provide support to parents and relatives who have experienced the death of a baby during pregnancy, at, or just after birth. This includes miscarriage, stillbirth and termination for foetal abnormality. Over the years SPRING has evolved to help many families and friends through such devastating times.

SPRING is part of University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity (Registered Charity Number 1057366) and is overseen by a steering group which includes bereaved parents and caring, committed professionals all of whom are passionate about SPRING and matters surrounding baby loss. We are based at St. Marys Maternity Unit at Poole Hospital and cover Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas.

The aim of SPRING is to support through grief at the point of loss, delivery and beyond. SPRING works closely with medical professionals to help provide a high level of care to bereaved families, alongside regular NHS services.