Two Cumbrian families have been busy fundraising for North Cumbria Hospitals NHS Charity for the bereavement suite and facilities at the maternity unit at West Cumberland Hospital.  The hope behind the funds raised are to support the needs of families experiencing the loss of a baby, ensuring they have the privacy and support they need during such a difficult time.   

Alice Clara Ross was stillborn at West Cumberland Hospital on 21st June 2023 weighing 4lbs 1oz, Alice’s Mum, Lynsey Ross explained why it was so important for her to raise money for the bereavement fund:

“After what we experienced losing Alice, it was really important that we would try and support any other families who were experiencing such a deva 

stating loss in any way we could. Our initial aim was to raise funds for a new Cooling Cot, which we were thrilled to achieve. We then decided to keep on going and improve the facilities in the Bluebell suite, a place which had been such a safe haven for me and my family when we really needed it. It was here we were able to spend time with Alice making precious memories with her”.  

The family also donated a portable moses basket which is compatible with a cooling blanket so families can take their baby home if they wish. As well as a new sofa bed and cushions and are currently donating a small speaker and coffee machine. 

As well as providing ‘Heart in Hand’ keepsakes, the heart stays with the baby and the outer keyring with the family to keep each other close. A gesture which proves to be invaluable to families coming to terms with such an enormous loss. 

Lynsey has also worked with her friend Kathryn to support siblings. Kathryn was looked after at West Cumberland Hospital when losing her baby, Mollie, in January 2020. Together, they have funded and made memory boxes for bereaved siblings affected by baby loss. 

Lynsey said: "we are proud of the difference Alice is making to help other families going through the heart break of baby loss. Alice is at the heart of everything we do".

Danni Hillier and her family who were also sadly affected by the loss of a baby have also been raising funds for the unit. Danni and her family and friends decided to run the Great North Run to raise the money which was eventually used to provide new light projectors for a bespoke delivery room to be used for those families who are experiencing the loss of a baby. 

Dannii explains:  “I started raising funds after I had used the bluebell suite in September 2023, my experience though so heart breaking was made so special. The team took such good care of us, helping us capture such special moments with our baby boy that I will treasure forever.”

Danni continues:

Having this kind of facility gives families in their time of need, privacy and time with their baby, allowing family members to come and meet the new baby without any pressure for limited time for visits, allowing us to make precious memories. Without the unit I don't feel this would be possible. We will forever be so grateful as a family for this precious time with our baby boy, before having him I really didn't know what to expect and when we were offered this beautiful service with our sleeping boy it meant everything to us. I will never forget our memories” 

Jo McNabb, Matron for Maternity Services at NCIC said:

“With the funds we have received we have been able to transform one of the delivery rooms, adding a new a new mural and light boxes, which creates such a lovely tranquil atmosphere and something that was lacking before, we really appreciate that families choose to raise money for our bereavement fund and think of others and service improvement in their darkest hour.”

Kerry Pape, Specialist Bereavement Midwife at NCIC said: 

“Losing a baby is one of the hardest things families can ever go through, the fact that these families are able to think of giving back during such a difficult time is astounding and we are so grateful that we are continually able to improve the facilities we offer because of their continued kindness. We’d like to thank each and every person who donates to the unit, it really does make such a difference.”

If you would like to learn more about North Cumbria Hospitals NHS Charity or donate or raise funds please visit our charity page.