The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A mum who has experienced the heart-wrenching loss of a baby is helping other parents cope with their grief.
Lucy Twelves’ daughter Darcy was stillborn in December 2011 and after going through the agony her loss caused is now devoting her time to bringing a small amount of solace to other mums.
Lucy, of Spalding, has become a supporter of the charity Aching Arms, which provides teddy bears that have been donated in memory of another baby’s life to newly-bereaved mothers.
The bear is seen as a gift from one bereaved mother to another and hopes to show them that they are not alone.
As part of her work with the charity Lucy has now teamed up with Lesley Carline, bereavement midwife at Peterborough City Hospital, to offer the special bears to local mums who experience a pregnancy or baby loss.
So far she has donated 36 bears to the maternity service – all have been donated by women who have lost a baby.
She said: “The bears do bring some comfort and to know it has come from a mother who has experienced the same loss, makes it all the more special.
“It is something you can keep forever, and maybe share with your other children, or family, when you are ready.”
Lesley added: “I am really pleased to be working with Lucy and Aching Arms.
“Sadly we have already given bears to women, but I can see how they can help them get through such a devastating time.
“It is a lovely gesture and one that I hope will improve the support we give to women.”
