We are taking on “75 Miles in September” for Bliss, the UK's leading charity helping babies born premature or full-term, but sick.

September is NICU awareness month, and with Imogen’s daughter, Alina, finally out of what has felt like the longest newborn phase, hitting 12 weeks “adjusted age” at the start of the same month, it feels like a time to recognise, reflect, share and give back to those that have helped us.

I (Imogen) am hoping with Alina now a little stronger and more resilient, to be able to get enough pram naps in to make up the mileage in steps, and maybe even build in some time for the odd run! I would also love to show Alina how strongly women can build back after traumatic births, mentally and physically, and exercise and movement have always helped me do just that.

I am delighted that Bertie, another strong woman inspiring the next generation in our family, is continuing her show of amazing support for us by taking part too, after being there in countless ways already through this journey.

1 in every 7 babies born in the UK will need specialist neonatal care, which means thousands of babies and their families seek information and support from Bliss every year. Bliss provided a great deal of information and validation during a time the Baird family didn’t have much brain capacity, but had to learn a whole new world in caring for their premature daughter. Navigating the NICU world, whilst recovering from the shock and pain of a sudden, emergency category 1 caesarean delivery, was incredibly tough and something nobody should do alone or without the guidance of organisations such as Bliss. We were and are so grateful for an immediate go to resource as we continue our journey with her, and whilst we hope none of our network have to experience a NICU stay, it would be of some comfort to know that if they did, we had helped raise awareness of Bliss’ resources and work and other things about NICU life that we will aim to share during this period which might ease their journey by a tiny smidgen. We will also aim to share some information on how to support and understand the emotions families go through when a new baby arrives in this manner in case you find a loved one is suffering; the Bairds were overwhelmingly lucky to have a village around them to help, practically and emotionally, and it’s only with the right support and love that we have got as far as we now have.

Bertie and I are also honoured to say this was the chosen charity of our Great Aunt, and Imogen’s namesake, Litan, and we hope she’d be proud to know we’ve carried on her generosity and efforts in raising money for the cause.

By sponsoring us, your donation will help Bliss continue their work to ensure that every baby born premature or full-term who needs neonatal care will have the best chance of survival and quality of life, and that parents can be recognised, involved and empowered in their care.

Thank you,

Imogen, Bertie (and Alina) 💕