A family who lost their baby are taking part in this year's Kiltwalk
A charity has said the return of the Kiltwalk will help it to continue offering vital support to families.
Whilst this year’s Kiltwalk event is virtual in nature, charity Held in our Hearts has said the event plays a vital role in allowing it to support bereaved families.
One such example of this, is the story of Ian and Brenda who got involved with Held In Our Hearts in 2019 after tragically losing their baby boy Fraser at one month old from sepsis.
They said: “Fraser was born on 11 August 2019, just before 32 weeks and weighing 3lb 1oz. He spent four weeks in the neonatal unit and came on so amazingly that we welcomed him home on 4 September.
“A few days later he didn't seem right…I phoned NHS 24 and was given an appointment to take him to outpatients. After a couple of hours we were given the devastating news that Fraser had sepsis and was unlikely to make it through.
“We spent the next few days spending time with Fraser, family and friends visiting him and making memories with help from the neonatal unit and CHAS.
“On 11 September, doctors did a brain scan and told us it was time to take away the machines, our Fraser was gone. We held him as he peacefully slipped away.
“When we were put in touch with Held in our Hearts they were amazing. So welcoming and understanding. As a family we want to do something to give back for all the support they have given us even despite the restrictions that lockdown imposed and that is why this year we are doing the Kiltwalk in Fraser's name to help raise funds so they can continue to provide support for all bereaved families.”
Held In Our Hearts fundraising manager, Tracy Watt, said: “The Virtual Kiltwalk is a chance for us as a community to engage and connect with others, and although we are not able to walk together physically we can focus on 23-25 April in the knowledge that we are not alone.
“The Kiltwalk is an event that is for all ages and abilities and not just for walking, you can swim or cycle too.
“What sets this weekend apart from all other Kiltwalk events is that you can choose your own challenge and make it a weekend of being together in spirit and all sharing the same goal in support of our bereaved families.”
Held In Our Hearts is continuing efforts to provide baby loss counselling and support to families, and have seen a successful adaptation to the shifted landscape of support services directly linked to the current pandemic and various restrictions, and regulations.
