Hi, I’m Elijah, and I want to tell you a story. It’s about how the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) saved my life when I was born too early—and my little brother’s life too.

I was born at 32 weeks, which is really early. I was tiny, and my lungs weren’t ready, and honestly, I probably wouldn’t have made it without the doctors and nurses in the NICU. They took care of me and helped me get strong enough to go home and start my life. They also took care of my mummy who was able to stay in the Dyson centre hotel for new mummies and daddies which meant she was just in the other room and could learn and help me without having to leave the hospital.

It wasn’t just me though. When my little brother was born, everything was okay at the start. Then he got sick and 3 days before Christmas my Mummy and my Dad were told they would need to start saying goodbye to him at 5 weeks old, but the NICU worked their magic to save him too. They didn't give up and it was the same again last year. If it wasn't for those really good people and the facilities in the NICU, neither of us would be here today. I wouldn’t be playing football and doing the things I love and the same with my little brother Renaeus because he's my biggest fan.

The NICU helps lots of babies who are born too soon or have problems after birth. Every single day, they save lives. I’m one of the lucky ones, but there are so many babies who need help. Without the NICU, a lot of families wouldn’t get to see their kids grow up or chase their dreams like I'm doing now.

I wouldn’t be who I am today without the NICU. I wouldn’t be playing football or doing anything I love. My little brother wouldn't be here supporting me shouting my name from the side lines. So if you can, please think about donating or helping out in any way you can.

"RUHX is the official NHS charity of the Royal United Hospitals Bath, dedicated to supporting the extraordinary work that leads to exceptional care for everyone"

Spoken by Me. Written by my mummy.