A new support group has been launched to help North East parents who have experienced the loss of a baby.
The Bereaved Parents Buddy Group has been set up by the Tiny Lives charity, which helps care for premature and sick babies at the RVI’s Special Care Baby Unit.
And the charity is inviting anyone who has lost a baby, no matter how long ago, to come along to its meeting, at Dance City, Temple Street, Newcastle, on 19th December 10-12pm.
Leading the group will be Sarah Watson, from Morpeth, whose daughter Martha lost her fight for life in 2006.
“It was clear from the moment she arrived that something was wrong,” said Sarah.
“There was no crying, no movement, but she was perfect; 10 fingers 10 toes, beautiful skin and a tiny bit of hair.
“When the consultant sat down with us to give us the test results, the news was devastating. Martha had no brain activity and therefore there was nothing they could do to help her.
“They kept her on a ventilator so our families could come in and meet her and we also had a christening at the Special Care Baby Unit with everyone there. She finally stopped breathing late at night in my arms in a room in special care.
“The next morning our consultant and one of the nurses came to see us on ward 32. They had taken foot prints of Martha for us and some hair to put in a locket. They had also taken some precious pictures.
“Martha was still in special care in a little room wrapped in blankets in a crib. She looked beautiful, our little angel.
“The staff made an impossible and heart wrenching situation easier. Their love and compassion went above and beyond and we will never forget the impact they had on our lives.
“Martha was our first daughter and we will never stop thinking of her – and we know that only a bereaved parent can truly know what another bereaved parent is going through, which is why we’ve set up this support group.”
Refreshments will be provided at the meeting and anyone who wants to attend the group is asked to contact louiza@tinylives.org.uk or call 0191 230 2112 so organisers can cater accordingly.
For further information about Tiny Lives visit www.tinylives.org.uk.