Local couple raises more than £2,000 for Forget Me Not Suite

A compassionate couple from Biddulph in Stoke-on-Trent have raised more than £2,000 to support the Forget Me Not Suite at Royal Stoke University Hospital.

Emily and Tom Johnson along with their baby girl received care for seven days in the suite. Tragically in April 2022 their baby was born sleeping.

Emily Johnson said: “We want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone at the Forget Me Not Suite for the incredible care and compassion shown to us during the most devastating time of our lives. Facing the loss of our baby through a medical termination was something we never imagined, but the support we received carried us through in ways we will never forget.

“The midwives were nothing short of extraordinary — they not only provided expert medical care but sat with us for hours when we needed to talk and gave us privacy and space when we needed to grieve.”

In March, Emily and Tom got married and chose to honour their baby’s memory by asking their wedding guests to donate to the Forget Me Not Suite instead of giving gifts. Emily and Tom have now returned to the Suite to present a cheque to members of the Bereavement Midwifery team.

Tom added: “Returning to the Suite to see them again was incredibly emotional, being able to present the donation in person felt like a small way of giving back. We are especially grateful to Sarah and Anna, who looked after our baby girl with such tenderness and love. Their presence, warmth, and empathy will stay with us always.”

Caroline Birchall, Specialist Bereavement Midwife, said: “We are hugely grateful to Emily & Tom for their amazing donation to support our bereavement suite here at UHNM. Their gift will make a lasting difference to families who need space, time and support during one of the most difficult times of their lives.

Their donation will help maintain and enhance the bereavement suite, providing a supportive environment where families can spend precious time with their baby. Their act of kindness highlights the importance of our bereavement suite and the impact it has on families.

“We deeply thank Emily & Tom for their support and for helping us to continue to offer comfort, dignity & space for healing.”

If you would like to fundraise for the hospital’s charity, UHNM Charity, visit www.uhnmcharity.org.uk for more information, or call 01782 676444 to speak to the UHNM Charity Team.