Statement from one of our team who holds this charity close to their heart:

As some of you may know, my youngest son, Toby, didn't have the smoothest start in this world.

Born unresponsive, Toby was transferred from Princess Royal Hospital to Brighton Hospital shortly after his birth, where he spent four incredibly challenging weeks on a ventilator in the Trevor Mann Neonatal ward.

I'm sure you can all imagine just how stressful and worrying an experience like that is for any parent.

It's a time filled with uncertainty, fear, and an overwhelming sense of helplessness.

This is precisely why the Early Birth Association holds such a special place in my heart.

This amazing charity directly supports both the Trevor Mann Baby Unit at Brighton Hospital and the Special Care Baby Unit at the Princess Royal Hospital.

They provide crucial support in two main ways:

1. Life-Saving Medical Equipment: The charity supplies vital, state-of-the-art medical equipment to both wards. This equipment is absolutely imperative, ensuring that these tiny, vulnerable babies have the best possible start in life and the highest chance of thriving.

2. Parental Support & Community: While parents are on the Trevor Mann ward, the Early Birth Association organizes regular coffee mornings. This might seem like a small gesture, but for those living amidst the constant beeping machines and the intense environment of the ward, even 10-15 minutes away to switch off, enjoy a coffee, and chat with other parents makes an enormous difference. It creates a much-needed moment of respite and connection during an incredibly difficult time.

Given that this charity supports baby units in both Haywards Heath and Brighton hospitals – both local to our Three Bridges depot – I'm sure the Early Birth Association has touched the lives of many Siemens colleagues, perhaps even some who aren't aware that the support they received was a direct result of this charity's incredible work.

This charity is incredibly close to my heart, and it truly makes a profound difference to parents every single day as they navigate one of the most challenging periods of their lives.

Your support for our charity football match will directly contribute to their invaluable efforts.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Graham West