I haven't run in 10 years (not sure running for the bus counts) so I thought I'd sign up for a half marathon... This October, I will be running the Royal Parks Half Marathon to raise money for a cause that is deeply meaningful to me: the maternity bereavement suite. This specialist room provides compassionate support to, and a space for, families who are coping with the heartbreaking loss of a baby.

Every day, approximately 14 babies are lost to stillbirth or neonatal death in the UK alone. These losses leave families shattered, often struggling to find the space and support they need to begin the healing process. The bereavement suite offers a peaceful homely environment where families can spend precious moments with their baby, receive counselling, and access resources to help them through this incredibly difficult time.

With your generous donations, the bereavement suite can provide:

- **A comfortable and private room**: This space allows grieving families to spend time together in privacy and peace, away from the general hospital environment.

- **Specialised equipment**: Items like cooling cots enable families to extend their time with their baby, providing an invaluable opportunity to create lasting memories.

- **Counselling services**: Professional support is crucial in helping parents navigate their grief. Your donations can fund sessions with bereavement counsellors who offer emotional and psychological support.

- **Memory-making materials**: Keepsakes, photographs, and handprints can be a source of comfort. Donations help provide these mementos to grieving families.

- **Training for staff**: Ensuring that midwives and hospital staff are adequately trained in bereavement care is essential. Donations can fund this specialised training, ensuring compassionate care for families.

Your support will make a HUGE difference to those enduring one of the most painful experiences imaginable. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us one step closer to providing the comfort and care these families need.

Please join me, Hannah and Darren https://www.justgiving.com/page/hannah-lloyd-1705934746154 the bereavement suite. Together, we can offer solace and strength to families in their darkest hours. Thank you for your kindness and generosity.