Emily Takes to the Skies to Thank UHNM’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

In November, Emily Bayley will be jumping out of a plane - but this isn’t just a thrill-seeker’s quest. It’s a mission to give back to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Royal Stoke University Hospital, the unit that saved her two little superheroes, Tommy and Carter.

“The amazing NICU team at Royal Stoke are the reason my boys are the cheeky, unstoppable whirlwinds they are today,” said Emily.

Tommy’s arrival was far from straightforward. During labour, Emily developed a serious infection that led to an emergency caesarean and further surgery. When Tommy was born, doctors discovered he was also fighting sepsis and had a rare condition called symbrachydactyly - a limb difference that can affect his motor skills.

For 19 days, the NICU team provided the specialist care Tommy needed to grow stronger. Today, he’s a thriving four-year-old with the same determination he showed from day one.

The family’s journey didn’t end there. Carter decided to make his entrance at 35 weeks, again via emergency caesarean. He was born with congenital pneumonia and sepsis, and his fight began immediately. Carter spent two weeks in NICU receiving CPAP, oxygen therapy and antibiotics. Even after he came home, the NICU nurses continued their support through home visits — helping with weight gain, temperature regulation and recovery. Now two years old, Carter is full of energy and character, a true little fighter.

“The care, compassion and expertise of the NICU team have shaped our family’s journey,” said Emily. “Now I want to give back in the biggest (and probably scariest) way I can – jumping out of a plane for them!”

Emily’s skydive will raise funds to help the NICU continue providing exceptional care to babies and families who, like hers, begin their stories in Royal Stoke’s neonatal unit.

If you would like to fundraise for UHNM Charity, register your interest here: uhnmcharity.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise-for-us or call 01782 676444 to speak with a member of the UHNM Charity team.