Teresa Smith BEM to fly high for neonatal fundraiser at Liverpool Women’s Hospital
Southport campaigner aims to raise £5,000 for vital medical equipment
Today, Southport campaigner and disability advocate Teresa Smith BEM is preparing to soar the skies in a remarkable fundraising effort aimed at supporting premature babies at Liverpool Women’s Hospital.
Teresa, a thalidomide survivor and retired social worker with severe limb disabilities, refuses to let her challenges limit her extensive advocacy work for disabled people.
Her latest endeavour involves participating in a special flight with Ravenair, scheduled for 3rd October. The campaign aims to raise £5,000 for neonatal vein viewers, crucial devices that aid medical teams in visualising the tiny veins of newborns to administer essential treatments.
Teresa’s motivation is particularly heartfelt, inspired by two closely related babies, one born prematurely at 28 weeks. Their journeys into life provide deeper insight into the trials faced by premature infants, their loved ones, and the dedicated staff caring for them.
Teresa, who was honoured with the British Empire Medal for her myriad contributions and community service, wants this initiative to inspire others and validate that disabilities need not hinder impactful achievements.
She said: “I may be taking to the sky, but the real heroes are the premature babies, their families, and the neonatal staff who care for them every day. Every donation will help us move closer to our £5,000 goal. If people are unable to donate, sharing the appeal would also be enormously helpful.”
Organised through the Teresa Smith Foundation, interested supporters can contribute through the direct PayPal donation page.