Couple raises £5,000 in memory of their son for Southend Hospital

Rebecca and Billy Read have raised £5,000 in memory of their baby, Pebble, who was born sleeping. The funds will benefit the Butterfly Suite at Southend Hospital, where they received care from the maternity bereavement team.

With the support of family and friends, Rebecca and Billy organised a JustGiving fundraiser and Billy participated in the Southend Half Marathon in June. The money raised will directly benefit the services provided by the Butterfly Suite team, which provided essential support following the loss of their son.

Rebecca expressed her gratitude, saying, “The care, support, and love from the Butterfly Suite team were beyond amazing. We wouldn’t be where we are today without the specialist bereavement midwives. During our time in the suite, we received memory boxes that allowed us to create precious memories with Pebble. These boxes are funded by charitable donations, and we wanted to support other grieving families in the same way.”

In collaboration with the maternity bereavement team, Rebecca and Billy identified items which would provide support to other families. Their successful fundraising will enable the purchase of two additional cold cots: one for use at home and one for the hospital suite, allowing families to spend precious time with their babies following loss.

Amanda Cushing, Specialist Bereavement Midwife, praised the couple’s efforts, saying, “We are incredibly thankful for Rebecca and Billy’s amazing fundraising in memory of sweet Pebble. Their support will help other bereaved families so very much.

“We are always so grateful for the continued support of our Butterfly Families ensures that all families receive the best care and opportunities to make memories with their babies.”