Grieving parents at Southend Hospital will now have enhanced support following a heartfelt donation in memory of a baby. Keeley Lengthorn, who tragically lost her son George Charlie Emmett at 23 weeks in March 2022, spearheaded a national fundraising effort that has now benefitted families across the UK.
In a poignant gesture, a new cold cot has been introduced to the Maternity Bereavement Suite. Supplied by Abigail’s Footsteps, the refrigerated unit preserves a baby’s body, allowing parents crucial extra time for bonding and creating memories during a devastating period.
Keeley, a solicitor and founder of George’s Law, campaigned tirelessly for statutory paid leave for parents who experience a loss before 24 weeks. Her advocacy bore fruit recently, coinciding with what would have been George’s third birthday.
The £3,000 cot donation was made possible by Jo Yates, owner of Yatesy’s Boxing Lab in Sidcup, who rallied the boxing community to support Keeley’s cause.
Keeley expressed her gratitude, saying, “I can’t thank Jo and my boxing family enough for making this generous cot donation possible. Boxing has saved me. Jo has created a family at the gym, and George is lucky to have had so many aunts and uncles who loved him and have supported our charitable efforts in his memory.”
Kayley Donovan, Fundraising Appeals Manager at Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, emphasised the significance of such donations. “These cots are such an important part of the bereavement suite, giving families precious time with their baby,” she noted.
Abigail’s Footsteps, has supplied over 200 cold cots to hospitals and hospices across the UK and Ireland, supporting families through unimaginable loss.
The introduction of George’s Law represents a significant milestone in parental bereavement rights. Recent reforms to the employment rights bill now offer two weeks’ paid leave for parents who suffer pregnancy loss before 24 weeks, mirroring existing provisions for later-stage losses.
Keeley Lengthorn’s journey, from IVF treatment to her advocacy work, underscores the personal stakes in this legislation. Her efforts, culminating in legislative change, mark a profound step forward in supporting families during their darkest hours.