In memory of our beautiful girl, Maisy Rae, we have created this fundraising page to raise vital funds and awareness for the Maternity Bereavement Service at James Cook Hospital.

Our Story

We had been in the hospital on Wednesday for our last weekly scan and appointment with our consultant. We saw our baby girl on the screen and finalised everything for our scheduled c-section, which was set to happen the following Tuesday, just six days away.

The very next day, I went into triage due to reduced movements and heard the heartbreaking words: “I’m sorry, it’s not good news. There is no heartbeat.” In less than 24 hours, our whole world had fallen apart. Two days later, on Saturday, I was induced, ready to give birth to our baby, who we knew would be born sleeping.

Whilst our pregnancy had been extremely complicated, I was nearly 37 weeks pregnant, and we had made it all the way to six days before our scheduled c-section date. Our hearts that were full of hope, optimism, and reassurance from our scan the day before, were shattered into a thousand pieces.

Regardless of your journey or your story, nothing can ever prepare you for receiving the news that your baby’s heart has stopped beating. The empathy, and care we received from the midwives, doctors, consultants, and the bereavement team at James Cook Hospital made a difference in such a heartbreaking situation.

I wish nothing more than to live in a world where no family ever has to experience the heartbreak of losing a baby. But if we can give back in some way, say thank you for the care we received, and pass on support to another family going through a similar, cruel experience, then we will do whatever we can.

About The James Cook Maternity Bereavement Service

For the majority of women and their families, pregnancy is a joyous time, welcoming a new life into the world. Sadly, not all pregnancies have a happy ending. In the UK, 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage, and every day, 17 babies are stillborn or die shortly after birth. This can be a very sad and difficult time for families.

At James Cook, there is a dedicated team of midwives who provide individualised support and care to families facing the unexpected loss of their baby.

Within the maternity unit, there are dedicated rooms that offer families the opportunity to spend precious time with their baby in a peaceful and homely environment. The service also provides families with items they may wish to use to make memories as they prepare to say their goodbyes.

Donations allow this service to continue making a difference for patients and families, enabling them to create precious memories together with their baby.