Our world was turned upside down in October 2024 when our beautiful daughter, Taya, was born peacefully sleeping at 39 weeks+4. Nothing could have ever prepared us for such devastation. During our hospital stay, we were able to capture precious moments with our daughter by using the beautiful memory box we were provided with by Sands, including hand/foot prints, her first blanket, a lock of hair and teddy bears to exchange. 

 

Although no parent wants to leave the hospital without their baby and only a box, I will forever be grateful for our Sands memory box as it contains everything we have of our little angel and all the memories we will ever get to make together.

 

We decided that as a way of honouring Taya we wanted to raise money for Sands to say thank you for the incredible support they offer bereaved families during a time when you don’t know how to help yourself. It’s only when you find yourself in such heartbreak that you realise how many amazing people and charities are out there to offer guidance and help you navigate a new world you’ve been dropped into.

 

Baby loss can feel very isolating and it’s frightening trying to find a ‘new normal’ as they call it, but with support from charities like Sands it can feel like you’ve got someone holding your hand every step of the way.

 

We have raised nearly £9,000 fundraising for Sands in just 11 months, through the kind donations of family and friends who have seen the impact the charity has on bereaved families and their healing journeys. We know just how valuable their work is and hope the money raised can bring comfort to other families in our position. 

Fundraising for Sands has been a lovely way to feel close to Taya and feel as though we are doing something for her as we are unable to parent her in the traditional sense. It makes me proud to know how much of an impact her little life has had on so many and this is shown through the generous donations made in her name. ❤️