As part of a series on Leicester's neonatal unit, we asked parents of babies cared for by the team to leave their messages of thanks on our website. Today, we publish these heart-warming words from the mums and dads whose children's lives have been saved.
Robbie and Summer-Leigh Rewcastle, now four months, of Abbey Lane, Leicester. Treated at the LRI, November 2012 onwards. Parents: Rob and Deena Rewcastle. "Robbie and Summer-Leigh Rewcastle were born on November 28 last year. "They weighed 1lb14oz and 1lb 6oz. They both spent months in an incubator with ventilation. "The care they received was second to none from everyone involved from the consultants, nursing staff to the cleaners (you get to know all staff when you're there months). "Summer came home on March 9, Robbie is due home soon. "Thanks for all the care from everyone - including the nurses and nursery staff keeping Robbie and Summer's siblings entertained whilst visiting."Alfie Greasley, now two, of Eyres Monsell, Leicester Treated at the LRI from April to August 2010. Parents: Rich and Louise "A truly amazing team that show true dedication to every baby that enters the unit. Leicester should be proud of the amazing neonatal units we have. "Dr Currie and his team are truly amazing, and like so many other babies who have passed through there hands, if it wasn't for them, my son Alfie wouldn't of survived. So thank you seems such a small word. Keep it up. Simply the best."Maisie Darlaston, now two, of Glen Parva. Treated at LRI in April 2011. Parents: Peter Darlaston and Lori Phillips "Maisie required the help of one of the specialist cooling machines in April 2011 when she was starved of oxygen at birth due to placental abruption. Thanks to the cooling machine and the care she received she is now a thriving toddler and about to celebrate her 2nd birthday."Jason Downes, now three months, of Leicester Forest East Treated at LRI in September 2012. Parents: Laurner Mcdonald and Scott Downes. "When Jason was born, three months premature, our lives were turned upside down. We had to learn how to care for a sick baby, the doctors and nurses on the neonatal unit were there to help and support us every step of the way. "You would teach us how to bath him inside his incubator how to handle him with the many wires attached to him but above all you would make sure we understood everything that was happening, you would take time out of your busy schedules to answer any questions we had and to reassure us. "Because of you amazing people Jason was able to come home three months later and is now a happy healthy six month old baby. "I will be forever grateful for everything Dr Currie and his team did for my family. I will always hold a special place for you amazing people in my heart. It takes a special person to be able to do the job you do. Thank you."Ellis Overton, now seven, of Beaumont Leys, Leicester. Treated at LRI in November 2005. Parents: Samantha Overton and Alva Wedderburn. "I would just like to say a huge thank you to Dr Currie and all his dedicated team for everything they did for Ellis. He was in there for a long time, six months in total. They were all very supportive. "I remember being petrified to wash Ellis or change his nappy as I was scared I would hurt him. I will never ever forget the neonatal staff and will always tell Ellis all about you all."Joshua Smith, now aged two, of Narborough. Treated for two weeks at the LRI and two weeks at the General in January/February 2011. Parents: Paul Smith and Keleigh Crooks. "Fantastic care at a horrible time. Our son was born nine weeks early and could not breathe unaided for the first week. "Eventually he came along and managed to start breathing alone. He couldn't feed and had to be fed through a tube. After a month in hospital (although it seemed much, much longer) he came home and has gone from strength to strength and is now a very happy two year old. "Can't thank the people at LRI and general hospital enough."Joshua Maccameron, now 17, of Blaby. Treated at LRI in 1995. Parents: Matt and Lisa Maccameron. "We have never forgotten how you helped our son all those years ago. He wouldn't be here today without you thank you so much for all your hard work that you do everyday."Alasdair Breach, nearly one, of Cosby. Treated at LRI and Leicester General last year. Parents: Nicola and Mark Breach "From the moment I arrived when my waters went at 29 weeks until our son was discharged, the staff in both Leicester Royal and General were amazing. "It was such a scary and emotional time but staff constantly supported us ensuring we knew what to expect when he was born and continuously through his care. I never felt that anyone was too busy to explain things to us and really appreciated that everything was always explained as simply as possible so we understood. Our son is a very happy and healthy little boy and we know that this is due to all the quick decisions that were made by the staff at the hospital and for that we will always be eternally grateful. "In what must be a very difficult job at times, you give parents so much support and go over and above the call of duty."Grace Lewis, now four, of Beaumont Leys, Leicester. Treated at LRI in October 2008. Mum: Claire Lewis. "Back in October 2008 our little girl was born at 35 weeks, a month early, because there were problems in the later stage of my pregnancy. "She was in hospital for three weeks. It's all thanks to the nurses and doctors on the neo-natal unit because without their caring support and love, myself and my partner would not have got thought it and she would not be here. "She is now four years old and turned out to be a lovely little girl."Erin Marlow, now aged 16, of Groby. Treated at LRI. Parents Joanne and Chris Marlow. "I went into premature labour 26 weeks into my pregnancy. It was during that two hour labour I first met Andy Currie. "He came to explain what was going to happen as soon as my baby was born. "Erin was a good weight, 960gms (2lb 20z) they said, and that's when the roller coaster started for us parents and Erin. "The neo-natal unit team just made it look like all in a day's work. "The team really cared for each and every baby and the support we had at that time from every member of the team was second to none. They became our friends. "Thankfully Erin came home after 15 weeks being cared for in the neo-natal unit. "Her life is still a roller coaster of health ups and downs, she has learning difficulties and co-ordination problems, but all of these are addressed by the speach and language unit at Longslade school that she attends. "It is so nice to see how Andy has progressed to manage the neonatal unit. The number of babies they keep alive is amazing."Freddy Wilcox, of Newfoundpool, Leicester. Treated at LRI in April 2011. Parents: Kim and Phillip Wilcox. "My son was born at 23 weeks and was very poorly. He spent six months on the unit with the amazing staff before coming home on oxygen. He continues to do well. We can never say thank you enough for saving the life of our lovely son."Nick Pugh, now 26, of Narborough. Treated at LRI in September 1986. Mum: Jacqui Pugh "You do a brilliant job and thanks to you my son, who was born 11 weeks early, survived and has now given me a beautiful grand daughter ."Lydia Kettlewell, now 15 weeks, of Narborough. Treated at LRI December 2012. Parents: Rachael and Graham Kettlewell "Our little lady was born weighing 3lb 9oz. "We were told she was going to be small as she wasn't growing much so I was induced at 37 weeks. "When we were first able to go and see Lydia, the nursery nurse that was looking after her was so helpful and calming. We only had size 1 nappies and newborn clothes which were both massive and she told us where to get some from, but until we got some they gave us some. "Every time we went to see Lydia, feed her or change her, we were made to feel everything is ok and Lydia was ok. "If there was a problem they wouldn't hide it from you. "Myself and my husband can't thank the nurses and the doctors in nursery D enough for all there help and advice."Demi Taylor Jones, now 14, of Braunstone, Leicester. Treated at Nottingham City Hospital then Leicester Royal Infirmary Parents: Kim Nutt and Jamie Jones "If it wasn't for the team at Nottingham City Hospital and Leicester Royal Infirmary she wouldn't be here. Demi was born at 24 weeks and weighed 1lb 8oz. She came home a week before her due date and has no problems at all. Thank you so much."Henry James Knifton, now six months, of New Parks, Leicester. Treated at LRI from October to December 2012. Parents: Emma Whitmore and Tom Knifton "Would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff that cared for our baby boy Henry. "Henry was born at just 27 weeks (13weeks early) and was such a massive shock for us all. They helped us through this emotional roller coaster by taking great care of Henry day and night. "You don't realise the amount of work, time and effort the staff put in at the hospitals until you have to be in the hospital daily, patiently waiting and watching as your baby is being treated. "All the staff were so friendly and supportive throughout the tough time we had. "No matter how many times we say thank you it will never be enough. "Henry is now six months old and doing remarkably well. "He's a perfectly healthy happy baby with no health problems."Zane Porter, 19 months old, of Westcotes, Leicester. Treated at the LRI in August 2011. Parents: Kelly Raven and Reece Porter "My son was born four days early at home unexpectedly but was not breathing. "The midwife came and rushed him to hospital, she saved his life. "He was put on the cooling treatment due to being moderately starved of oxygen. It was so very scary at first but the nurses on the ward were fab and helped to explain things better about what was going on and gave us support. "The doctors and nurses all paid a huge part in saving his life and I'm so grateful to them. He is now 19 months old, happy and healthy and so far he has no signs of any damage being done. "Thank you so much to the neonatal staff."Miley Mae Billington, two, of Eyres Monsell, Leicester. Treated at LRI and Leicester General in February and March 2011. "Without the care of both staff from the LRI and LGH at the start of life Miley wouldn't be the happy two year old she has grown into today."Thomas and Stephanie Kirman, now aged 12, of Thorpe Astley. Treated at LRI. Mum Linda. "Dr Currie and his team are absolutely fantastic. Total support caring for both babies and their families and a continued support whilst dealing with various problems faced once leaving the hospital. A real person and team who actually treat you as they would liked to be treated if in the same position with compassion and respect. Thank you for everything."Erin, now 11 months, of Ibstock. Treated at LRI from April to June 2012. Parents: Leanne & Mark "We are eternally grateful to all of the staff who cared for our little girl. "Our daughter's premature arrival was frightening and those first steps into the neo-natal unit daunting. However everyone was so accommodating and friendly and ensured things were explained in terms that we understood. We can never thank you enough. We would also like to say thank you to Rashmi & Adapt who also supported us during our time on the unit."Charlie Barkby, now 10 months old, of Humberstone, Leicester. Treated at LRI Parents: Kerry Mcloughlin and David Barkby "Thank you to all the lovely staff that cared for Charlie for the nine weeks he was with you after being born at 28 weeks. Very kind and caring staff helped us get through each day at such a difficult time, What an amazing job you all do."Madisyn-Rose, now 28 weeks, of Melton. Treated at LRI , Northampton and Leicester General from September until November. Psrents: Laura Jeffery & Dan Tebbutt "The LRI delivered our baby girl safely by emergency caesarean at 30 weeks, she weighed 2lbs 6oz. The amazing care they gave her in her critical first few hours are what saved her life. We are forever grateful for their hard work. She was then transferred back to LGH at three weeks old who continued her care until she was discharged aged eightweeks. We cannot fault both hospitals; their dedication and superb level of care throughout the most difficult few months of our life, ensured that we could focus on supporting each other knowing that she was in safe hands. Today our daughter is just like any other six month old apart from smaller, she is developing brilliantly and we have been very lucky in that we have not had many set backs and she has no long term problems as a result of being 10 weeks premature. Thank you so much to every single member of staff that helped save both mine and my daughter's life. We are eternally grateful."Bradley Lewis Treated in Leicetser January to March Parents: Keely & Warren Big big thank you to all the staff at Leicester. "Bradley was born at 28 weeks and the care he got from the staff was amazing . Bradley is now home and improving all the time, thank you. Grandad x"Teagan Kerr, nearly nine, originally from Fleckney. Treated at LRI in June 2004. Parents: Jo & Tony "They saved our daughters life. She was born blue and unresponsive and had to be resuscitated within minutes of being born as she failed to breathe on her own. Her outlook was very bleak, she had suffered oxygen starvation after a difficult birth and was put on full life support. Andy Currie came to see us soon after her birth and made us aware how vulnerable she was. He told us about a special trial that she could be part of where they cool the babies to see if helps their outcome. The next 24 hours were crucial as our baby girl fought for her life. The whole team were totally outstanding and did their job with such delicate care and sensitivity. They shared our daily ups and downs and cared for us all as a family. We are one of the lucky ones, our girl survived defying all expectations. After 2 weeks we came home. Yes, she was a fighter and still is but this was no fluke, it was largely down to the amazing job of the neonatal team to who we will always be thankful. She is now nearly nine and although she is physically very disabled and reliant on others for all her daily care needs, she is able to communicate with us in her way. She is funny, clever and relentlessy happy. Thank you."Georgia Gibson, now 13, of Leicester. Treated at LRI January to June 2000. "Still can't express my gratitude enough. Georgia had the best possible care, and has flourished because of the chance to live the team at NNU gave her against terrible odds."Ryan cooper , now 13, of Leicester. Treated at Leicester General in 1999. Mum: Lyndsey Cooper "It was a very emotional time especially not knowing whether your child was going to survive or not being born at 27 weeks premature. The staff and consultant, Dr Ellis Jones at the Leicester general had been very supportive and always do there great job on what they do for the babies and the parents. Oliver, now 20 months, of Braunstone, Leicester. Treated at LRI August to November 2011. Parents: Justyna and Mariusz "I would just like to send a massive thank you to all the staff at Leicester neonatal unit who supported my son in 2011. Everyone we met has been friendly and approachable which has made a bad experience a lot more bearable. Thank you once again for everything."Megan & Finlay, now 20 months, of Barrow Upon Soar. Treated at LRI then transferred to Nottingham Parents: Helen & Dan Megan 770g (1 lb 11 oz) & Finlay 680g (1 lb 7 oz) were born at 26 weeks. Words cannot express how grateful we are to the team at the LRI that cared for them at birth and the teams at QMC & NCH which cared for them for the next 16 weeks. They are both walking and starting to talk, we are so lucky to have them in our lives and are thankful every day for the amazing NHS and it's hard working staff. Our Megan & Finlay's lives. www.facebook.com/pedal4prems www.justgiving.com/pedal4premsLeo Storm, now of two, of Ibstock. Treated at: Leicester Royal Infirmary and Leicester General Hospital Parents: Amie and Donovan Storm "The neonatal team were incredible and I have them to thank for my gorgeous little boy. From the moment he was born, grey and lifeless they swooped into action - I knew he was in good hands. They even made the time to help me feel included in his care, they go all out to ensure you get those special moments like that first touch and cuddle. It meant a lot to me that they got to know Leo's little personality and Aly the play specialist created some fantastic keepsakes such as tiny footprints and taking photos of special moments I'd have otherwise missed. Nurse Natalie Wright was there to support us during my overnight stay with Leo when he was due to come home. She went the extra mile and really put me at ease at a very scary time! The support from ADAPT was, and still is incredible, as cliche as it sounds I really don't know where I'd be without them. Their work inspired me so much I am now on the committee and finally feel like I can try to give something back to an amazing charity who really did keep my head above water. The lovely people will be lifelong friends to me and my children (who call the ADAPT ladies their "Aunties" !!) Max Lewin, now six months, of Braunstone Town. Treated at LRI Parents: Natalie Lewin and Simon Suffolk "I'm actually Natalie Lewin's mum, so nanny to Max. my name is Jackie Dean. My grandson Max was born on November 18 and he spent over a week in neonatal unit as he was poorly when he was born. Myself and his parents would like to thank all staff who looked after Max they do marvellous work. "Max has fully recovered and is beautiful little baby."
Robbie and Summer-Leigh Rewcastle, now four months, of Abbey Lane, Leicester. Treated at the LRI, November 2012 onwards. Parents: Rob and Deena Rewcastle. "Robbie and Summer-Leigh Rewcastle were born on November 28 last year. "They weighed 1lb14oz and 1lb 6oz. They both spent months in an incubator with ventilation. "The care they received was second to none from everyone involved from the consultants, nursing staff to the cleaners (you get to know all staff when you're there months). "Summer came home on March 9, Robbie is due home soon. "Thanks for all the care from everyone - including the nurses and nursery staff keeping Robbie and Summer's siblings entertained whilst visiting."Alfie Greasley, now two, of Eyres Monsell, Leicester Treated at the LRI from April to August 2010. Parents: Rich and Louise "A truly amazing team that show true dedication to every baby that enters the unit. Leicester should be proud of the amazing neonatal units we have. "Dr Currie and his team are truly amazing, and like so many other babies who have passed through there hands, if it wasn't for them, my son Alfie wouldn't of survived. So thank you seems such a small word. Keep it up. Simply the best."Maisie Darlaston, now two, of Glen Parva. Treated at LRI in April 2011. Parents: Peter Darlaston and Lori Phillips "Maisie required the help of one of the specialist cooling machines in April 2011 when she was starved of oxygen at birth due to placental abruption. Thanks to the cooling machine and the care she received she is now a thriving toddler and about to celebrate her 2nd birthday."Jason Downes, now three months, of Leicester Forest East Treated at LRI in September 2012. Parents: Laurner Mcdonald and Scott Downes. "When Jason was born, three months premature, our lives were turned upside down. We had to learn how to care for a sick baby, the doctors and nurses on the neonatal unit were there to help and support us every step of the way. "You would teach us how to bath him inside his incubator how to handle him with the many wires attached to him but above all you would make sure we understood everything that was happening, you would take time out of your busy schedules to answer any questions we had and to reassure us. "Because of you amazing people Jason was able to come home three months later and is now a happy healthy six month old baby. "I will be forever grateful for everything Dr Currie and his team did for my family. I will always hold a special place for you amazing people in my heart. It takes a special person to be able to do the job you do. Thank you."Ellis Overton, now seven, of Beaumont Leys, Leicester. Treated at LRI in November 2005. Parents: Samantha Overton and Alva Wedderburn. "I would just like to say a huge thank you to Dr Currie and all his dedicated team for everything they did for Ellis. He was in there for a long time, six months in total. They were all very supportive. "I remember being petrified to wash Ellis or change his nappy as I was scared I would hurt him. I will never ever forget the neonatal staff and will always tell Ellis all about you all."Joshua Smith, now aged two, of Narborough. Treated for two weeks at the LRI and two weeks at the General in January/February 2011. Parents: Paul Smith and Keleigh Crooks. "Fantastic care at a horrible time. Our son was born nine weeks early and could not breathe unaided for the first week. "Eventually he came along and managed to start breathing alone. He couldn't feed and had to be fed through a tube. After a month in hospital (although it seemed much, much longer) he came home and has gone from strength to strength and is now a very happy two year old. "Can't thank the people at LRI and general hospital enough."Joshua Maccameron, now 17, of Blaby. Treated at LRI in 1995. Parents: Matt and Lisa Maccameron. "We have never forgotten how you helped our son all those years ago. He wouldn't be here today without you thank you so much for all your hard work that you do everyday."Alasdair Breach, nearly one, of Cosby. Treated at LRI and Leicester General last year. Parents: Nicola and Mark Breach "From the moment I arrived when my waters went at 29 weeks until our son was discharged, the staff in both Leicester Royal and General were amazing. "It was such a scary and emotional time but staff constantly supported us ensuring we knew what to expect when he was born and continuously through his care. I never felt that anyone was too busy to explain things to us and really appreciated that everything was always explained as simply as possible so we understood. Our son is a very happy and healthy little boy and we know that this is due to all the quick decisions that were made by the staff at the hospital and for that we will always be eternally grateful. "In what must be a very difficult job at times, you give parents so much support and go over and above the call of duty."Grace Lewis, now four, of Beaumont Leys, Leicester. Treated at LRI in October 2008. Mum: Claire Lewis. "Back in October 2008 our little girl was born at 35 weeks, a month early, because there were problems in the later stage of my pregnancy. "She was in hospital for three weeks. It's all thanks to the nurses and doctors on the neo-natal unit because without their caring support and love, myself and my partner would not have got thought it and she would not be here. "She is now four years old and turned out to be a lovely little girl."Erin Marlow, now aged 16, of Groby. Treated at LRI. Parents Joanne and Chris Marlow. "I went into premature labour 26 weeks into my pregnancy. It was during that two hour labour I first met Andy Currie. "He came to explain what was going to happen as soon as my baby was born. "Erin was a good weight, 960gms (2lb 20z) they said, and that's when the roller coaster started for us parents and Erin. "The neo-natal unit team just made it look like all in a day's work. "The team really cared for each and every baby and the support we had at that time from every member of the team was second to none. They became our friends. "Thankfully Erin came home after 15 weeks being cared for in the neo-natal unit. "Her life is still a roller coaster of health ups and downs, she has learning difficulties and co-ordination problems, but all of these are addressed by the speach and language unit at Longslade school that she attends. "It is so nice to see how Andy has progressed to manage the neonatal unit. The number of babies they keep alive is amazing."Freddy Wilcox, of Newfoundpool, Leicester. Treated at LRI in April 2011. Parents: Kim and Phillip Wilcox. "My son was born at 23 weeks and was very poorly. He spent six months on the unit with the amazing staff before coming home on oxygen. He continues to do well. We can never say thank you enough for saving the life of our lovely son."Nick Pugh, now 26, of Narborough. Treated at LRI in September 1986. Mum: Jacqui Pugh "You do a brilliant job and thanks to you my son, who was born 11 weeks early, survived and has now given me a beautiful grand daughter ."Lydia Kettlewell, now 15 weeks, of Narborough. Treated at LRI December 2012. Parents: Rachael and Graham Kettlewell "Our little lady was born weighing 3lb 9oz. "We were told she was going to be small as she wasn't growing much so I was induced at 37 weeks. "When we were first able to go and see Lydia, the nursery nurse that was looking after her was so helpful and calming. We only had size 1 nappies and newborn clothes which were both massive and she told us where to get some from, but until we got some they gave us some. "Every time we went to see Lydia, feed her or change her, we were made to feel everything is ok and Lydia was ok. "If there was a problem they wouldn't hide it from you. "Myself and my husband can't thank the nurses and the doctors in nursery D enough for all there help and advice."Demi Taylor Jones, now 14, of Braunstone, Leicester. Treated at Nottingham City Hospital then Leicester Royal Infirmary Parents: Kim Nutt and Jamie Jones "If it wasn't for the team at Nottingham City Hospital and Leicester Royal Infirmary she wouldn't be here. Demi was born at 24 weeks and weighed 1lb 8oz. She came home a week before her due date and has no problems at all. Thank you so much."Henry James Knifton, now six months, of New Parks, Leicester. Treated at LRI from October to December 2012. Parents: Emma Whitmore and Tom Knifton "Would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff that cared for our baby boy Henry. "Henry was born at just 27 weeks (13weeks early) and was such a massive shock for us all. They helped us through this emotional roller coaster by taking great care of Henry day and night. "You don't realise the amount of work, time and effort the staff put in at the hospitals until you have to be in the hospital daily, patiently waiting and watching as your baby is being treated. "All the staff were so friendly and supportive throughout the tough time we had. "No matter how many times we say thank you it will never be enough. "Henry is now six months old and doing remarkably well. "He's a perfectly healthy happy baby with no health problems."Zane Porter, 19 months old, of Westcotes, Leicester. Treated at the LRI in August 2011. Parents: Kelly Raven and Reece Porter "My son was born four days early at home unexpectedly but was not breathing. "The midwife came and rushed him to hospital, she saved his life. "He was put on the cooling treatment due to being moderately starved of oxygen. It was so very scary at first but the nurses on the ward were fab and helped to explain things better about what was going on and gave us support. "The doctors and nurses all paid a huge part in saving his life and I'm so grateful to them. He is now 19 months old, happy and healthy and so far he has no signs of any damage being done. "Thank you so much to the neonatal staff."Miley Mae Billington, two, of Eyres Monsell, Leicester. Treated at LRI and Leicester General in February and March 2011. "Without the care of both staff from the LRI and LGH at the start of life Miley wouldn't be the happy two year old she has grown into today."Thomas and Stephanie Kirman, now aged 12, of Thorpe Astley. Treated at LRI. Mum Linda. "Dr Currie and his team are absolutely fantastic. Total support caring for both babies and their families and a continued support whilst dealing with various problems faced once leaving the hospital. A real person and team who actually treat you as they would liked to be treated if in the same position with compassion and respect. Thank you for everything."Erin, now 11 months, of Ibstock. Treated at LRI from April to June 2012. Parents: Leanne & Mark "We are eternally grateful to all of the staff who cared for our little girl. "Our daughter's premature arrival was frightening and those first steps into the neo-natal unit daunting. However everyone was so accommodating and friendly and ensured things were explained in terms that we understood. We can never thank you enough. We would also like to say thank you to Rashmi & Adapt who also supported us during our time on the unit."Charlie Barkby, now 10 months old, of Humberstone, Leicester. Treated at LRI Parents: Kerry Mcloughlin and David Barkby "Thank you to all the lovely staff that cared for Charlie for the nine weeks he was with you after being born at 28 weeks. Very kind and caring staff helped us get through each day at such a difficult time, What an amazing job you all do."Madisyn-Rose, now 28 weeks, of Melton. Treated at LRI , Northampton and Leicester General from September until November. Psrents: Laura Jeffery & Dan Tebbutt "The LRI delivered our baby girl safely by emergency caesarean at 30 weeks, she weighed 2lbs 6oz. The amazing care they gave her in her critical first few hours are what saved her life. We are forever grateful for their hard work. She was then transferred back to LGH at three weeks old who continued her care until she was discharged aged eightweeks. We cannot fault both hospitals; their dedication and superb level of care throughout the most difficult few months of our life, ensured that we could focus on supporting each other knowing that she was in safe hands. Today our daughter is just like any other six month old apart from smaller, she is developing brilliantly and we have been very lucky in that we have not had many set backs and she has no long term problems as a result of being 10 weeks premature. Thank you so much to every single member of staff that helped save both mine and my daughter's life. We are eternally grateful."Bradley Lewis Treated in Leicetser January to March Parents: Keely & Warren Big big thank you to all the staff at Leicester. "Bradley was born at 28 weeks and the care he got from the staff was amazing . Bradley is now home and improving all the time, thank you. Grandad x"Teagan Kerr, nearly nine, originally from Fleckney. Treated at LRI in June 2004. Parents: Jo & Tony "They saved our daughters life. She was born blue and unresponsive and had to be resuscitated within minutes of being born as she failed to breathe on her own. Her outlook was very bleak, she had suffered oxygen starvation after a difficult birth and was put on full life support. Andy Currie came to see us soon after her birth and made us aware how vulnerable she was. He told us about a special trial that she could be part of where they cool the babies to see if helps their outcome. The next 24 hours were crucial as our baby girl fought for her life. The whole team were totally outstanding and did their job with such delicate care and sensitivity. They shared our daily ups and downs and cared for us all as a family. We are one of the lucky ones, our girl survived defying all expectations. After 2 weeks we came home. Yes, she was a fighter and still is but this was no fluke, it was largely down to the amazing job of the neonatal team to who we will always be thankful. She is now nearly nine and although she is physically very disabled and reliant on others for all her daily care needs, she is able to communicate with us in her way. She is funny, clever and relentlessy happy. Thank you."Georgia Gibson, now 13, of Leicester. Treated at LRI January to June 2000. "Still can't express my gratitude enough. Georgia had the best possible care, and has flourished because of the chance to live the team at NNU gave her against terrible odds."Ryan cooper , now 13, of Leicester. Treated at Leicester General in 1999. Mum: Lyndsey Cooper "It was a very emotional time especially not knowing whether your child was going to survive or not being born at 27 weeks premature. The staff and consultant, Dr Ellis Jones at the Leicester general had been very supportive and always do there great job on what they do for the babies and the parents. Oliver, now 20 months, of Braunstone, Leicester. Treated at LRI August to November 2011. Parents: Justyna and Mariusz "I would just like to send a massive thank you to all the staff at Leicester neonatal unit who supported my son in 2011. Everyone we met has been friendly and approachable which has made a bad experience a lot more bearable. Thank you once again for everything."Megan & Finlay, now 20 months, of Barrow Upon Soar. Treated at LRI then transferred to Nottingham Parents: Helen & Dan Megan 770g (1 lb 11 oz) & Finlay 680g (1 lb 7 oz) were born at 26 weeks. Words cannot express how grateful we are to the team at the LRI that cared for them at birth and the teams at QMC & NCH which cared for them for the next 16 weeks. They are both walking and starting to talk, we are so lucky to have them in our lives and are thankful every day for the amazing NHS and it's hard working staff. Our Megan & Finlay's lives. www.facebook.com/pedal4prems www.justgiving.com/pedal4premsLeo Storm, now of two, of Ibstock. Treated at: Leicester Royal Infirmary and Leicester General Hospital Parents: Amie and Donovan Storm "The neonatal team were incredible and I have them to thank for my gorgeous little boy. From the moment he was born, grey and lifeless they swooped into action - I knew he was in good hands. They even made the time to help me feel included in his care, they go all out to ensure you get those special moments like that first touch and cuddle. It meant a lot to me that they got to know Leo's little personality and Aly the play specialist created some fantastic keepsakes such as tiny footprints and taking photos of special moments I'd have otherwise missed. Nurse Natalie Wright was there to support us during my overnight stay with Leo when he was due to come home. She went the extra mile and really put me at ease at a very scary time! The support from ADAPT was, and still is incredible, as cliche as it sounds I really don't know where I'd be without them. Their work inspired me so much I am now on the committee and finally feel like I can try to give something back to an amazing charity who really did keep my head above water. The lovely people will be lifelong friends to me and my children (who call the ADAPT ladies their "Aunties" !!) Max Lewin, now six months, of Braunstone Town. Treated at LRI Parents: Natalie Lewin and Simon Suffolk "I'm actually Natalie Lewin's mum, so nanny to Max. my name is Jackie Dean. My grandson Max was born on November 18 and he spent over a week in neonatal unit as he was poorly when he was born. Myself and his parents would like to thank all staff who looked after Max they do marvellous work. "Max has fully recovered and is beautiful little baby."
