Running for Lila - Emma's Journey
In February, Emma received the devastating news that her baby, Lila, no longer had a heartbeat. The team at Crosshouse Hospital’s Ayrshire Maternity Unit supported Emma and her family through the most difficult days of their lives.
This October, Emma completed the Great Scottish Run half marathon for Crosshouse Children’s Fund, turning her heartbreak into a positive story of fundraising in Lila’s precious memory. Emma raised an incredible £1550!
Support at Crosshouse Hospital
At a routine scan in February, Emma received the devastating news that her baby no longer had a heartbeat. Emma gave birth to her little girl, Lila, two days later.
During this unimaginably difficult time, the Ayrshire Maternity Unit team provided Emma and her family with compassionate care and support.
“The care we received from the maternity team made an unbearable situation feel as safe and as gentle as it possibly could.
“The bereavement unit became a sanctuary for us during the worst days of our lives. The support didn’t stop when we left the hospital either and the kindness of the staff has stayed with us.”
To say thank you, Emma and her family have chosen to fundraise in aid of Crosshouse Children’s Fund in Lila’s memory.
Giving back through fundraising
Lila’s older sister, Ava, wanted to do something in memory of her sister. With the help of her dance school, she raised funds through a series of performances.
“It was really special to see Ava wanting to do something positive in Lila’s memory and to give something back. It also showed me that fundraising doesn’t have to be something huge, small ideas can make a real difference when communities come together.”
Emma
Running in memory of Lila
This October, Emma took on the half marathon at the Great Scottish Run, to help raise vital funds for families like hers.
“I decided to take part in the Great Scottish Run because I wanted to do something in Lila’s memory that would give me something positive to focus on while also raising money for somewhere that means a lot to our family.
“Running has become a form of therapy for me, and it gives me space to process everything. It has given me a sense of purpose, and I’ve come to enjoy the sport.
“The half marathon is a huge challenge, but that’s part of why I wanted to do it. I want to be able to cross the finish line knowing I completed something difficult in Lila’s memory, and through fundraising, her life has helped make a difference to other families.
“It’s about turning something incredibly heartbreaking into something positive in Lila’s memory.”
