On 16th October, Reuben Quarendon-Andrews was born. Shortly after his arrival, he was taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at The Princess Alexandra Hospital due to low temperature and breathing difficulties.

For 9 days, Reuben was cared for in the unit. During that time, we saw first hand the incredible work the doctors and nurses do around the clock. Their skill, dedication and compassion not only cared for Reuben medically, but supported us as parents through one of the most worrying times of our lives. Thanks to them, Reuben was able to come home with his mummy and daddy.

The NICU team work tirelessly, 24 hours a day, for babies who may be in the unit for an hour, 9 days like Reuben, or even several months. They provide life-saving care while also supporting families during moments of fear, uncertainty and hope.

This year’s 5-a-side football tournament is raising money to support the facilities within the NICU at The Princess Alexandra Hospital. The aim is to improve the environment and resources available for the many families who pass through the ward so that, during incredibly difficult times, they can focus on what truly matters, being close to their little one, without worrying about anything else.

Every donation, no matter the size, will help support the families and babies who rely on this amazing unit.