A LEOMINSTER mum is raising money for the charity which has helped her to keep treasured memories of her baby boy.

Sam and Karl Wood, both 27, were faced with every parent's worst nightmare when they discovered their baby, Ethan, did not have a heartbeat at 27 weeks.

He was stillborn four days later on December 11 last year.

Mrs Wood's grieving family were lifted by the gift of a precious memory box which they could fill with photos and other items to keep their memories of Ethan safe.

She said: "After three long days in labour I gave birth to our beautiful sleeping baby on December 11. It was so hard for us all. Both my two other children, Kienan, seven, and Ella, five, both wanted a baby brother, and that's what they had but unfortunately they never got to meet him.

"His name is well known in our house and we speak every day of our little Ethan. We are such a proud family to have an angel watching over us – he is our shining star forever."

The memory box was provided by Sands (stillbirth and neonatal charity) to keep photos, hand or foot prints in as well as other items and Mrs Wood now wants to raise money to support the work the charity does.

"Receiving the box meant a lot to us as it helped us in supporting our children through it too," she added.

"Since receiving it we have done a special cabinet with so much stuff in, in memory of our son."

She is also campaigning for mums to be aware of any changes they notice during pregnancy and wants to raise awareness that, unfortunately, problems can arise at any time.

"I wouldn't wish for any parent to go though this but unfortunately it happens," she said.

"People think the first 12 weeks are the ones to be careful of. But no matter if you six,12, 27, 34 or full term it can happen at any time.

"So please be aware of it and just keep on eye on the kicks and if you feel as though something has changed then get it checked. Every second counts."

Mrs Wood has set up a page on Facebook called Twinkle Little Stars where she will share her fundraising plans.

On April 25 she has organised a tombola at Cawley Hall in Luston and is welcoming donations.

She will also be leading a three-mile sponsored walk around Leominster next month.

Anyone who would like to donate to the cause can visit https://www.justgiving.com/sam-wood11/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=fundraisingpage&utm_content=sam-wood11&utm_campaign=pfp-share

Anyone who would like to get involved can visit the Facebook page.