For us this cause is extremely personal, here is why....

Placenta abruption affects up to 1 in 100 pregnancies. We would all like for Miscarriage, still birth and infant death never to happen but unfortunately it will for various reasons.

For Andrew and I this heart-breaking incident occurred on the 27th April 2022 when our Baby Ava Mae arrived sleeping. We had suffered a placental abruption at full term (plus 7days). Delivered by emergency section following heavy bleeding, sadly Ava was delivered just a few minutes too late. This is not the news we ever imagined to hear or have to share.

Following Ava's arrival we were able to spend some precious time with her, although unfortunately this vital time was restricted due to the hospital not having the correct functioning equipment.

The cold cot; a specialised piece of equipment which is designed to fit into a Moses basket or crib and helps to keep a baby cool, allowing the bereaved family to spend up to 72 hours with their loved one was not functioning correctly.

Our time was cut short to just 24 hours. This time should have been afforded to us, to make memories that we can cherish forever. Hold our baby, sing her lullaby's, read her a bedtime story and quite simply snuggle and hold her in this heart-breaking time.

The time afforded to parents who go through the pain and suffering following this awful and traumatic experience should not be denied or reduced due to the lack of equipment available to the hospital.

What Andrew and I feel we can do to help when these tragic incidents do happen, is share our experiences and provide guidance on coping mechanisms which have helped us in this difficult time.

We are looking to raise funds to help purchase a cold cot for Airedale Hospital with a hope that other families are given every opportunity to make the most of their short and precious time.

This is just the start for Ava Mae's Guiding Stars, we will continue to raise funds for further cold cots & provide guidance on coping mechanisms helping other bereaved families faced with losing a child.