On 16th December 2019, we unexpectedly welcomed our beautiful son Aaran into the world. Weighing in at 620g (1lb 6oz), he was born at just over 26 weeks gestation, making him 13 weeks early. We spent 91 days between Queen Charlotte Neonatal unit (NICU) and Northwick Park NICU, till Aaran was discharged on 16th March 2020.

Just like many other parents in our situation, we had no prior knowledge of premature babies, what being in the NICU involved or what to expect once we were discharged. The charity Bliss was a saving grace for us, as they aim to give every baby born premature or sick in the UK the best chance of survival and quality of life. Bliss provided extensive information and support to us on how to handle the situation we were in.

During the pandemic, access to neonatal units has been restricted - making the barriers which prevent parents being with their baby even harder to overcome. Some parents currently aren't able to be with their baby at all. Bliss know that babies have the best outcomes if their parents are able to be actively involved in their care. We would like to support Bliss so that they can continue to carry out the fantastic work they do and help support many other parents that find themselves in a similar situation to us.

Nimesh & I will be walking 100 miles each for the month of March. Any donations, however little or large, will be going towards a wonderful cause. 

THANK YOU ALL!

Lots of love,

Komal, Nimesh & Aaran xxx