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Our son, Oakley, made his surprise entrance into the world on 21st March 2024 at just 29 weeks gestation. What followed was a life-changing three months spent in various Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). It was an incredibly challenging time, but also one filled with overwhelming kindness and support.During this journey, Zara and I experienced firsthand the incredible care provided by the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) at Dorchester County Hospital. From the life-saving medical attention Oakley received to the thoughtful little extras—family pizza nights, a stocked cupboard of tea and coffee, and a warm, welcoming environment—we felt supported every step of the way. Our older son, Charlie, was able to stay close and be part of the experience, making a difficult time more manageable for us as a family. We would also like this space to be the best it can be for the staff, having to leave a newly born sick baby is heart breaking for families so we would love to give back to those that slightly eased that pain and saved our sons life.
Bliss, the UK charity for babies born premature or sick, was also a lifeline for us. Their financial guidance, emotional support, and practical advice helped us navigate an uncertain and stressful time. Shockingly, Bliss highlights that families with a baby in neonatal care face an average additional cost of £405 a week. For many, this financial strain adds to an already emotional time, and the charity works tirelessly to provide the support families need.
Now, we want to give back to these incredible organisations that gave us so much. We are raising money to ensure the SCBU remains a place of comfort and care for families like ours, and to help Bliss continue their vital work supporting families of premature and sick babies.
We are not alone in this mission to raise money. We would to thank Carly and Dominic who joined us in SCBU with their son Hudson, Lorna and Tom with their son Jackson and Sara and Tom with their son Charlie.
Every donation, no matter how small, will make a real difference. With your help, we can support Bliss in their mission and ensure Dorchester County Hospital’s SCBU has the resources it needs to keep providing outstanding care.
Thank you for supporting us, for supporting Oakley, and for supporting families who need it most.
With gratitude,
James, Zara, Charlie, and of course Oakley **
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Dorchester Cricket Club, Dorchester, Dorset, United Kingdom
