Donna White
Donna, Julie and Becky's fundraiser for East & North Hertfordshire Hospitals' Charity
Fundraising for East & North Hertfordshire Hospitals' Charity
Story
To raise funds to create a homely welcoming space for our families receiving difficult news at their obstetric scans. They are frightened and worried and have to wait until a specialist can come and talk to them. It would be nice to provide a comfortable room where they can be private, make phone calls and be given a drink whilst they wait to hear about the next step in the care of their baby. Quite often they are simply in shock and just need a safe space to let their emotions settle.
At the moment this room is cold and office like, and often untidy. We would like to take out some office furniture, put in more discreet storage and give some attention to the floors and walls with a more soothing ambiance. Of course, a sofa and a chair and table where they can put their drinks would be nice and a roller blind to make the room more cosy and private. It's not asking for a lot but it would make a world of difference to our families experience of receiving the difficult news. When they remember what could have been a really awful time for them , they will look back and remember that they felt safe and cared for.
Pregnancy care has come a long way from the days when women weren't encouraged to talk about difficulties in pregnancy or to grieve their loss. Donna's Mum, Maureen, experienced a stillbirth of a baby girl in the 1960s and never got to see or hold her child, make any memories or even know where her final resting place was. Julie remembers the "bodyblow" of hearing that her baby had died at her first scan. Becky's 2nd pregnancy was blighted by the news that her baby had abnormal appearances in his brain and tummy. She remembers feeling terrified and alone. Thankfully, he became the inimitable Olly that he is today. We know now that really excellent care begins from the moment we first hear that something may be wrong. If you've ever experienced pregnancy loss or a difficult diagnosis through your pregnancy or know someone who has, I'm sure you will want to support this project.
Thank you for giving , it means so much x
