Specialist cooling cot donated to Southend Hospital to help baby loss families
It's part of Baby Loss Awareness Week, which is between the 9th - 15th October
A husband and wife who have experienced baby loss are helping other bereaved parents create precious moments with their babies.
Talya and Chris Jackson from Hockley have donated a specialist cooling cot to Southend Hospital's maternity bereavement suite.
The couple were preparing to welcome their daughter Bonnie in early 2024, yet days after a scan showed their baby was healthy, they received devastating news.
At 37 weeks and 5 days pregnant Talya noticed a significant reduction in her baby's movements and attended Southend Hospital's maternity unit for assessment.
They were sadly told that Bonnie's heartbeat could no longer be detected.
Supported by Southend Hospital’s maternity bereavement team, Talya and Chris welcomed Bonnie Elizabeth Rose Jackson in the Butterfly maternity bereavement suite.
Despite their grief, they chose to celebrate their rainbow baby Bonnie’s arrival, following two previous losses in 2022 and 2023, surrounded by love.
Because of the support from the team in the Butterfly Suite, Talya and Chris were able to spend seven days with Bonnie, creating lasting memories.
Talya said: “In those first hours and days, the Butterfly Suite gave us the confidence to celebrate Bonnie’s birth. One of the most vital items that allowed us precious time with our daughter was a cooling cot, which had been donated by other parents in memory of their baby boy.
“Without the specialist cot, we'd never have had those precious days with Bonnie.”
Through baby loss charity Abigail’s Footsteps, they have donated a cooling cot to the Butterfly Suite to help other families create memories with their babies.
They have dedicated themselves to helping others impacted by baby loss.
Through half-marathons, quiz nights and auctions, they have raised more than £25,000 in Bonnie's memory. The money continues to support charities and organisations helping families navigate life after loss.
Faye Bailey, Individual Giving Manager for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, said: “Talya and Chris’ strength and generosity following the loss of their daughter will help so many parents facing the heartbreaking reality of losing a baby.
“We are beyond grateful for this gift, which will help families make the most of every precious moment with their babies. Bonnie’s legacy will touch the lives of countless families at Southend Hospital for many years to come."