Story
I am taking part in the 60 Miles in June event for Tommy's because I want to help save babies' lives and support grieving parents who've lost their babies, often before ever meeting them.
I am one of those parents. I have been pregnant 5 times in the past 6 years, and I've lost 4 of those pregnancies. I credit research from Tommy's for my one successful pregnancy, which resulted in a healthy baby, now a rambunctious toddler.
Recurrent pregnancy loss is not common, but like many complex gynecological issues, its causes are poorly understood. I have a number of diagnoses -- endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and an autoimmune disease -- that collectively increase the chances of another loss. But still no one completely understands the mechanisms that lead to loss or how to substantially reduce the risk. Right now women and birthing parents in the UK have to wait until they've lost 3 pregnancies before qualifying for deeper investigation -- the policy is cruel and paternalistic and only amplifies suffering. Tommy's recently released results from a study showing a graded model of care -- with increasing levels of care offered after each loss -- can not only reduce mental anguish but potentially save 10,075 pregnancies each year.
Please sponsor me and you too can help end the heartbreak and devastation of baby loss.