A Scots couple who suffered the loss of two babies have raised thousands for a children's charity in their memory. Parents Gary and Sally McBride have had all five of their children premature.
Eldest daughter Hannah, now 22, was born at 24 weeks, 13-year-old Evan arrived at 36 weeks and Jackson, 11, came into the world at 30 weeks. Heartbreakingly, their daughter Holly and son Jamie both passed away due to complications of prematurity.
Gary and Sally lost baby Holly on November 18, 2010. Around ten-and-a-half years later, the couple welcomed son Jamie, who weighed just 1lb 7oz. The newborn fought bravely for seven weeks, but sadly died on May 9, 2021.
Mum Sally said: "After losing Holly in the same way, it was awful to have to experience this tragedy again with Jamie. We are utterly devastated but still so very grateful for the care and compassion we received in Glasgow's Neonatal Unit."
Since losing their two youngsters, Sally and Gary have dedicated much of their time to raising money to help other families going through similar heartbreak. Sally said: "Every year, our family now walks the Kiltwalk in both Holly and Jamie’s memory as Holly’s Hikers/Jamie’s Jaunters."
The Kiltwalk is Scotland’s largest mass participation walking fundraiser, with Holly's Hikers/Jamie's Jaunters raising a whopping £10,409 for the Neonatal Unit in Glasgow Children's Hospital at last year's event.
The team also received support from Knightswood-based fitness group Born To Be Alive. Some members joined the family on the walk while others created a special pit stop, complete with DJ, music, drinks and snacks.
Sally said: "Without this amazing team I’m not sure if I could have faced the world yet. Many of the team sponsored us and shared out story. They have helped us so much!'
Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity supporting bereaved parents like Sally and Gary, who have to learn to cope with the pain of losing a child. Sally described the charity as "amazing" and hailed the staff on the neonatal unit for all their incredible work.
She said: "Even though we suffered terrible loss, we were looked after. They do wonderful work and save so many tiny babies.
"The work they do is so amazing, it actually inspired me to work for the NHS myself so I am currently studying at Glasgow Caledonian University to become a paramedic."
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