WHEN a baby is born prematurely, there’s a lot that goes into keeping them alive.
And as a mum of two premature babies Claire Harris has seen first-hand the emotion, hard work and dedication that goes into helping little ones make it through their first days and weeks.
Her son Emerson was born at 35 weeks and her daughter Eliza was born at 29 weeks and now thanks to hospital staff and support from the premature charity Bliss the pair – now aged seven and four – are running around enjoying life.
So in a bid to say thank you to Bliss and to ensure other parents in a similar situation the 39-year-old will be holding a family barbecue at the Old Edwardians RFC on Saturday, July 11.
From 6pm there will also be a disco on offer at the Streetsbrook Road club to get revellers in the party spirit and digging deep for the cause .
Claire started to volunteer and fundraise for Bliss three years ago and over the years she has raised a whopping £3,000 through a number of events including bake sales, sponsored buggy pushes.
In January 2013 she set up a Family Support Group in Sutton Coldfield and provides parents and families of sick and premature babies to socialise, get advice, share information and receive mutual support in their hour of need.
Claire, from Solihull, said: “As a mum of two premature babies I understand only too well how scary having a premature baby can be.
“It’s a very difficult and emotional time for parents.
“I wanted to get involved with Bliss to help other parents who are going through similar experiences that I have.”
Bliss works closely with the Government and NHS to achieve significant change in the care and treatment of sick and tiny babies and supports parents and families through an incredibly frightening and stressful time.
It also drives new developments and increasing skills amongst doctors, nurses and health professionals who care for babies both in and out of hospital.
There will also be a raffle at the barbecue and anyone who wishes to donate contact Claire.
Tickets for the barbecue and disco cost £8.50 for adults and £4 for children and are available from Claire via email on [email protected] or calling 07739018604.
