Louis was born on 15th July 2019 weighing 1lb 11oz. From the first day, Louis was facing many challenges following a traumatic birth, starting with a brain haemorrhage. This later caused hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain). Louis underwent numerous blood transfusions, had tests carried out on his blood gases several times a day, and Severe Lung Disease. Louis also had a severe case of Sepsis which he managed to pull through, and suspected NEC which he also pulled through, to name a few of those challenges. Everything that could go wrong with a premature baby, Louis was experiencing. More than one doctor said "it's like Louis has swallowed their medical book". But despite all his courage and bravery, and the daily battle he faced every day, the fluid on his tiny brain was too much to cope with. Sadly, Louis passed away in his Mommy's arms on 5th September 2019.

Throughout Louis' short life he became one of the strongest persons we've known. His courage to fight was so courageous which touched many hearts along the way. Therefore, to honour our little boy Louis and to continue his legacy, we are raising funds to help enhance other babies experience and care on NICU ward, at New Cross Hospital. Our aim is to purchase a Giraffe Omnibed Incubator, or another piece of equipment which proves more valuable for New Cross Hospital. This incubator will allow parents to get closer to their baby during when necessary, as the whole top of the incubator can be lifted. Along with all the health benefits this 'state of the art' medical equipment provides from the beginning of their birth. Hopefully we can help improve tiny lives at a time their life is just beginning.

'A Walk For Louis' - A 19 mile round trip which will be our first BIG event which was originally booked for 25 July and cancelled due to Covid-19, now scheduled for 5th September 2020. There will a small group of us walking to raise further funds for our 'State of the Art' incubator, or a more important and valuable piece of medical equipment, if needed. Anyone who is donating towards our walk, you are welcome to use our JustGiving page. All we ask is for you to leave a note to say it's for the walk. We will start where Louis is at rest and walk to New Cross Hospital and back. Thank you very much to everyone who donates towards our walk. Please feel free to follow our journey via our Facebook page, 'BECAUSE OF LOUIS'.

EDIT: 16 January 2021

Hi all, Louis' Mommy here.!

'Thank You' to all who have donated so far. After much thought, our aim for a 'state of the art' incubator might be changing. We are looking into something much bigger, but more importantly, it will help to benefit ALL babies that arrive on the NICU ward at New Cross Hospital. Why there? They say charity starts at home, so we are starting at Louis' home. Once this is finalised, all details will be added to our page @BECAUSE OF LOUIS.

I am aware of the difficulties we are all facing during this pandemic and extremely grateful to those who still wish to forward a donation. I am also aware that premature babies are still being born too soon, so I will do my upmost to help, on behalf of Louis' legacy, our beautiful baby boy. At this time, I would like to say a MASSIVE 'Thank You' on behalf of our family, to all our key workers and NHS. I hope you all have the strength to get through these uncertain times, with a good support network around you. If not, reach out. ASK FOR HELP!

Best wishes, Louis' Mommy.

#STAY SAFE

'Because of Louis' NICU lives @ New Cross