After my husband James and I received such incredible care from the maternity team at the Royal Berkshire Hospital and The Willow Support Group I, along with my best friend Leanne are hoping to raise £1000 by walking One Million steps each between January and March 2023.

James and I were devastated at the loss of our baby girl Leo in October 2022. We have been blown away by the care and support we’ve received both during and after our loss. It is not something you’d think about until it happens to you or someone you love but specialist care at this time is so important. We want to give back as much as we can to ensure any other parents who sadly go through this get all the support they need. Please read through how your valuable donation will help below.

When your baby has died it can seem as if no-one else in the world knows or understands what you are going through or how you feel inside. Many parents who have lost babies know that although people who are close to them can sympathise, it is only those who have experienced the death of a baby who can offer real understanding and empathy for what you are going through.

The Willows Support Group is made up of a group of parents in the Reading area, who have all lost babies at various stages. The group has evolved because we were all looking for somewhere to go to get support following the devastating loss of our precious babies, but not really finding or knowing where to turn. Each of us have very different experiences to share and have felt comforted in talking to, and supporting each other through this life shattering experience.

The Willows was formed in 2008 by a group of parents who wanted to share their experiences with someone else who would understand. There was nowhere for them to go for support so these parents, with the support of the Royal Berkshire Hospital, set up an informal group where they could share their stories with parents who understood. The Willows meets regularly and has provided vital support for parents who have been through and continue to suffer the loss of a baby. We are a small group that work together to raise funds to continue to keep The Willows Support Group running.

The Willows provides an extremely valuable source of caring and understanding that we all need after such an immense loss.

o £2 will buy you the refreshments for the monthly support meetings

o £5 will buy two SD cards as part of a memory pack for a bereaved family

o £10 will buy two inkless wipes for hands and footprint memories

o £20 will buy a selection of books for families to borrow

o £25 will cover hall rental for one month’s support meeting

o £50 will buy a moses basket for the Willow Room at the Royal Berkshire Hospital where bereaved families can spend quiet time with their baby

The Willows Support Group also fund Bereavement Counselling for grieving parents which is such a crucial support system.

In December 2022 from the donations they have gained The Willow Support Group were able to donate £15,000 to the Royal Berks Charity Christmas appeal to sound proof the Bereavement suites within the hospital. This incredible donation got the charity to their target of £40,000 two weeks early.

Any amount you are able to donate will make a difference.

Thank you so much.

Sam x