Salisbury family raising money to help others who have experienced baby loss

Meghann Blake is taking on Walk for Wards Wherever You Are after losing her baby in 2018

The Blake family will be doing their bit to raise crucial funds for the Stars Appeal.
Author: Ellie HarriesPublished 2nd Jun 2021

This year's event takes place on Sunday 4th July, but like so many events - it can't go ahead as it would usually.

This year the Stars Appeal is asking people to walk 3k, 5k, or 10k 'Wherever You Are' to raise vital funds to keep the charity going, and help more people at Salisbury District Hospital.

HELPING OTHERS

Meghann Blake is one of the people taking part this year, having had a personal connection with the Stars Appeal.

In 2018, Meghann was taken into hospital at 22 weeks pregnant where it was confirmed she'd lost her baby daughter - Aria.

She gave birth to her in the Benson Suite, which is funded by the Stars Appeal - for families who are going through losing a baby.

Baby Aria's memorial

Meghann said:

"Without the Benson Suite, I would have had to deliver our baby on the normal labour ward. I would never have got through the birth and loss of our daughter Aria.

"They let her sleep next to my husband and I in a cold cot and we could say goodbye without feeling rushed.

"They took photos and made a beautiful memory box for us and helped us organise her funeral."

Meghann has now had another daughter, Grace, who spent time in the Neonatal Unit - but is now a healthy and happy toddler!

"All my family (__dad Ashton and brothers Casey-Joe and Cameron and sister Grace) are walking to raise as much as we possibly can so that other families who need the Benson Suite or NICU will have what they need to get them through the most difficult of times."

Meghann's children

To sign up for Walk for Wards, or to support the charity, click here.