I am a midwife at Southend University Hospital and on the 24th March I am taking part in the 5K Tough Mudder event in London, in order to raise money for the Maternity Department.

The 5K Tough Mudder event is a 5 kilometre run with 10 different obstacles throughout. It can be very challenging and requires a lot of teamwork, as the obstacles are tough and in wet and muddy conditions.

With all money raised, I would like to buy new equipment and redecorate the high risk labour rooms. As a woman in labour, it is important to be in a calming and relaxed environment, to allow the body to release hormones needed for labour to progress, which will then increase the chance of a positive birthing experience. The high risk delivery rooms at Southend have become very old and tired looking and due to very little money at the hospital, the rooms have not yet been able to be decorated and turned into a homely and comforting place. Along with this, being able to provide the unit with more/better pieces of equipment can help to reduce midwives being away from the women due to trying to find equipment and also allow for an improved level of care.

I am eager to try and help improve the environment, care and experience for women at Southend Hospital, therefore any donations and support will be greatly appreciated by not only myself, but my fellow midwives and women we care for.

Thank You!!