On May 17th ( I recently found out this is the day of NEC awareness!) 1999 I was born a healthy term+6 baby however I developed NEC soon after birth.  I was transferred to the local Children’s hospital in an ambulance and was sent straight into emergency surgery. The affected portion of bowel was removed and I had an ileostomy formed.

We still don’t know what caused me to develop NEC and I hope to find out the reason one day. Being able to share tips and stories with others who know what it’s like is interesting and empowering.

I’m now a final year Student Midwife at the University of the West of Scotland. I have always wanted to work for the NHS so I am so proud to be helping others.

My medical condition has made me who I am today. More determined and more active as well as more caring and resilient.

NEC UK is a parent led registered charity for Necrotising Enterocolitis, NEC (1181026)Here at NEC UK we also raise vital funds to support:Medical ResearchFamilies affected by NECWe offer phone, email and social media supportArrange yearly family meets,Provide Parent Care packs to families affected by NEC in NICU units across the UKSupport Kangaroo Care by providing Kangaroo hampers to any parent in NICU across the UK.Donate electric breast pumps to NICU across the UKOffer Nappy Support for children who use over the average nappies,Provide 'Bags of Love' for bereaved parents