A Barrow family has funded a new piece of equipment for their local hospital in memory of their son.
Rebecca Round and Russ Dodd’s son Noah was born eight weeks early in August 2021 and died aged just a few weeks old after he developed a respiratory condition. He was looked after by the special care baby unit at Furness General Hospital.
The family, including Noah’s four-year-old brother Caleb, began fundraising in his memory, with a number of events and activities that have so far generated around £7,500.
Their efforts have resulted in the hospital being able to buy a piece of equipment which uses light to treat neonatal jaundice without compromising the relationship between mother and baby.
Rebecca said: “Our hospital in Barrow and team in the special care baby unit were outstanding, and second to none.
“Even when Noah was being treated at other hospitals we could phone the unit at any time and they would answer our questions. They’re amazing, all of them.
“We cannot even put into words just how much we appreciated everything those girls on the unit did for Noah and ourselves. It will certainly never be forgotten.”
Money raised by the family has been donated to the SCBU through Bay Hospitals Charity, which funds the latest equipment for University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust to help make patients more comfortable and ensure they get the best possible care and treatment.
Rebecca said: “Knowing that what we’re doing is helping to buy things like this for the unit makes a massive difference to us.”
Money was raised via a GoFundMe appeal, as well as a raffle and an Easter family fun day at Vickerstown Cricket Club.
More fundraising events are planned, including a summer concert at the cricket club on Sunday August 14, and more events for Halloween and Christmas.
University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust executive chief nurse Bridget Lees said: “I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of Noah. Rebecca, Russ and Caleb have been incredibly brave, and we really appreciate their support for the SCBU.
“This piece of equipment will make a huge difference to mums and babies in the unit – Noah’s family is making an amazing contribution in his name.”
To make a donation, visit gofundme.com/f/Our-Angel-Noah
