Thanks for visiting my fundraising page.

On the 9 July 2013 mine and my husband Ian’s world fell apart when our beautiful first child Olivia was stillborn. There was no warning and I had a trouble free pregnancy but on the 8 July I noticed that Olivia’s movement had stopped.  After a few hours there was still no movement so that evening we went off to the hospital hoping and praying that everything would be fine.  We were later told that there was no heartbeat and we were utterly devastated.  The world then becomes such a scary place with so many decisions and situations that no parent should face.  However, during that time we received information and support from SANDS, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death charity, who train midwifes, fund research and provide information to guide parents through choices that they have to make.  They also provide a memory box for parents, which is something that brings comfort.  SANDS also run local support groups where bereaved parents can meet to support one another. 

Losing Olivia seems so wrong – she was perfect and so wanted by us, our families and friends.  We hope to raise funds to keep Olivia’s memory alive and to ensure something positive comes from our loss. 

We have committed to raise £1,000 for SANDS.  

We intend to raise money through a number of fundraising events, starting off with a work dress down day. We have set up this Just Giving page so that there is an easy way to make your donations towards our target. All donations, whatever the size are very much appreciated.

About the Charity I am raising money for: Sands, the stillbirth and neonatal death charity, was founded in 1978 and over the past 25 years the charity has supported many thousands of families whose babies have died, offering emotional support, comfort and practical help. Sands has worked tirelessly with health professionals to revolutionise the care bereaved families receive in hospital. Sands has fundamentally changed the way in which bereaved parents and their babies are cared for

Why Sands is so relevant: Incredibly in the UK today, in spite of medical advances, 17 babies a day are either stillborn or die within the first twenty eight days of life, over 6,500 babies dying every year. Rates of stillbirth have remained relatively unchanged for 20 years and in fact are increasing.

Donating through Justgiving is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Sands gets your money faster and, if you’re a UK taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please donate and thank you for your support!

Michelle, Ian and Olivia always with us