A husband and wife who have experienced baby loss are helping other bereaved parents create precious moments with their babies.
Talya and Chris Jackson from Hockley have donated a specialist cooling cot to Southend Hospital’s maternity bereavement suite.
News of the donation is particularly poignant as 9 to 15 October marks Baby Loss Awareness Week.
The couple were preparing to welcome their daughter Bonnie in early 2024, but days after a final 36-week growth scan showed their baby girl was healthy and thriving, they received the devasting news.
At 37 weeks and five days pregnant, Talya noticed a significant reduction in her baby’s movements and attended Southend Hospital’s maternity unit for assessment.
With her mum by her side and Chris making his way home from work, Talya was told that their daughter’s heartbeat could no longer be detected.
Supported by Southend Hospital’s maternity bereavement team, Talya and Chris welcomed Bonnie Elizabeth Rose Jackson in the Butterfly maternity bereavement suite.
Despite their grief, they chose to celebrate their rainbow baby Bonnie’s arrival, following two previous losses in 2022 and 2023, surrounded by love.
With support from the Butterfly Suite team, Talya and Chris were able to spend seven precious days with Bonnie. They created lasting memories together, gave Bonnie her first bath and introduced her to close family members.
Talya said: “In those first hours and days, the Butterfly Suite gave us the confidence to celebrate Bonnie’s birth. One of the most vital items that allowed us precious time with our daughter was a cooling cot, which had been donated by other parents in memory of their baby boy.
“Without the specialist cot, we’d never have had those precious days with Bonnie.”
Inspired by the care they received and the time they were given with their daughter, Talya and Chris decided to give something back.
Through baby loss charity Abigail’s Footsteps, they donated a cooling cot to the Butterfly Suite to help other families create memories with their babies.
Since their first loss in 2022, the couple have found support through charities, counselling services and support groups. They have also dedicated themselves to helping others affected by baby loss.
Through half marathons, quiz nights and auctions, they have raised more than £25,000 in Bonnie’s memory. The money continues to support charities and organisations helping families navigate life after loss.
Faye Bailey, Individual Giving Manager for Mid and South Essex Hospitals Charity, said: “Talya and Chris’ strength and generosity following the loss of their daughter will help so many parents facing the heartbreaking reality of losing a baby.
“We are beyond grateful for this gift, which will help families make the most of every precious moment with their babies. Bonnie’s legacy will touch the lives of countless families at Southend Hospital for many years to come.”
