13:20, 25 March 2022
Words by Smiley Team, Staff Writer, London
A soon-to-be mum is raising money for a baby trauma and bereavement care charity after they supported her family.
Katie Alexander came across Making Miracles in 2015 when her family were supported by the organisation through a very difficult time. Making Miracles offers counselling, bereavement care and a baby loss memorial garden to families who need it.
“I first came across the charity after my parents lost a pregnancy due to Edward's Syndrome," Katie tells Smiley News. "Since then, I've tried to volunteer myself in any way I can."
Katie first fundraised for the charity just one year later in 2016, when she did a skydive and raised over £700. “The skydive in 2016 was absolutely amazing and one of the best experiences of my life," she says. "I had always thought about doing a skydive, but never had the guts.
“When the opportunity came up I just couldn’t say no to giving it a go, and raising money for Making Miracles. I raised funds mainly through social media, but I also reached out to local businesses and schools, and some even put collection tins up.”
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Katie and her partner are now expecting a baby of their own due in August, and the pregnancy got Katie wanting to raise some money once again.
Both her and her partner will be taking part in the 30 Day Challenge in April, by walking 30 miles in 30 days, “in memory of all sleeping babies, and their families.”
“I couldn't pass up the challenge to raise some more funds, especially now I'm pregnant," says Katie. "Our pregnancy has been relatively normal, but we did have some concerns at 12 weeks. All of which have been put to rest, so hopefully the baby is completely healthy."
April 2022 is the 8-year anniversary of Making Miracles, who have been supporting families through baby loss but also birth trauma, since 2014.
The charity was founded just one year before Katie’s parents sought it out, after the founder Kelly Wells experienced a traumatic high risk pregnancy and the near loss of life of her daughter.
Kelly realised there was a gap for specialised organisations, but a high demand of parents experiencing the isolation of grief.
Katie and her partner are hoping to raise at least £100 with their walking challenge, for the charity that has touched their lives personally.
DONATE: To support Katie in her challenge, and donate, click here.
VOLUNTEER: To find out more about Making Miracles and how you can support their work or access their services, visit their website.
