Last weekend, my wife Nikki, son Charlie and I joined ten others on the Lyke Wake Walk to raise money and awareness for Sands, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death charity.
We set off at 9pm on Friday evening and arrived eighteen hours later during the afternoon on Saturday (see picture). We walked from Osmotherley to Ravenscar through the North York Moors National Park to remember babies like Isaac, Elspeth, Rose, Gypsy, Amy and Evie, some of whose parents were walking with me at the weekend. The walk was organised by Annika and James Dowson from Helmsley, who lost Gypsy ten years ago, in support of Sands, whose main aim is to break the silence around stillbirth and neonatal deaths.
It was an experience – if somewhat tiring at times - that I will remember for many years to come. It was incredibly moving to hear the stories from each of the parents who were walking. I am humbled to be a part of this tremendous effort and I was delighted to be able to support the charity and its goals. We were lucky that the rain held off and we were able to enjoy the National Park in all its glory at different times of the day and night.
Please do sponsor Annika and James by following this link: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sands-gypsydowson