22 September 2008
A comfortable, homely space has been created for parents who have just experienced a stillbirth at Epsom Hospital. The Surrey branch of the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society (SANDS) donated £2,500 which paid for the refurbishment work in the room at Epsom Hospital's maternity unit.
The initiative formed part of a major county-wide project by the society and the unit was the first to benefit. It now boasts curtains, lighting and an ensuite bathroom as well as kitchen facilities in an effort to make it a less clinical environment.
The room was recently officially opened by Lorna Bland, Chairman of Surrey SANDS. She said: "To lose a baby is devastating and traumatic. Surrey SANDS is run by volunteers who have all been through it, we therefore understand the need to provide a comfortable, homely space in which parents can spend those special few hours together as a family, before they have to say goodbye to their baby. Their experience during this time significantly impacts upon the memories they create which then have to last a lifetime."
Funding for the room was raised by Chris Bland, husband of the Chairman, who cycled the 280 mile off road, coast to coast route called the Wessex Way. On his journey he was invited to Longleat House to meet with Lord Bath.
Chris, a bank manager, who raised in excess of £6,000, said: "When the opportunity arose for SANDS to create a room at Epsom Hospital it seemed the perfect opportunity to combine my hobby of cycling and a very good cause. Our own son Elliot was stillborn at Epsom in 1995 and it was immensely rewarding to be able do something so positive and meaningful as a result. Everyone was so generous - it really helped to know how much the project was equally valued by people who had not had the misfortune to share our experience."
The facility will also help the midwives who have the role of supporting distressed parents, helping them to come to terms with what has happened.
Lead midwife manager at Epsom, Toni Johnston, said: "We are extremely grateful to SANDS for their support in refurbishing the room. The room really will provide a more pleasant, homely environment for the immediate needs of the patients."
Anyone affected by the loss of a baby during pregnancy, at birth or soon after can contact the Sands National Helpline on 020 7436 5881 for support.
