Thanks everyone it really is appreciated.

So as a team of 3 we have decided to take on the London to Paris Bike Ride in aid of Tommy’s charity. Below is a little bit of information that outlines why we have decided to ride for this incredibly worthy cause which is deeply personal for many people. This particular story relates to one member of our team, Phil. In February we found out that we were expecting our first child, it was an extremely exciting moment and from this day plans started to be made, we changed elements of our lifestyle and started to discuss names, dates and let our parents know that they would, many not for the first time, be Grandparents again.

 

In late March due to our specific circumstances we went for an early scan and found out we were about 6 and half weeks pregnant, during this scan we saw the flicker of a heartbeat on the screen, that was our babies heartbeat. Now all that remained was to be patient and wait until we hit the magical 12 weeks so we could share our happy news with everyone. Unfortunately at just over 9 weeks into the pregnancy, we had to have a further emergency scan. During this scan it was found that the heartbeat had gone and the pregnancy, although not yet actually over, could no longer continue. We had suffered a miscarriage. All the excitement was replaced with sadness and an overwhelming feeling of shock. All our future plans had to be put on hold.

 

During this time the Midwives within the NHS did what they could within their limitations, however information was lacking and their time was so precious. In the days and hours that followed we avoided the inaccurate Google searches as we had been advised and instead turned to specific organizations that were set up to explain, reassure and comfort you throughout the experience. On these pages lived experts willing to answer your question no matter how insignificant they may have seemed and where pages of information were available, breaking down what had happened and what was still to happen in the days to come. In a time of uncertainty like this, when you are brimming with questions, fears and concerns it is a lifeline that offers you not only the facts but also gives you the reassurance you need so you know you are not alone, offering support to both sides of the partnership. That is why we wanted to do something to mark this event, so it didn't fade into insignificance. To do this we are taking part in a once in a lifetime experience riding from London to Paris, and we can use this experience to help those who helped us through such a difficult time.

 

This is why we are cycling for Tommy’s charity. Hopefully we can help them help others who will unfortunately go through the same experience and also support them with their maternal and fetal research into the causes of premature birth, stillbirth and miscarriage. Below you will find some more detailed information in regards to the charity we are supporting, please give what you can because we will be giving everything and a little bit more to complete the Bike Ride.