For some families our Fire & Lego walk is more than a self-challenge; it's about giving back | News

For families like Kiran's, our upcoming Fire & Lego walk is more than a self-challenge; it's about giving something back to the neonatal unit at Croydon University Hospital who looked after her son when he needed specialist care and made sure that she was looked after and reassured at every stage, with kindness, too.

Kiran is walking on fire as part of team 'Blister Sisters' from our Trust's Digital Services team - you can sponsor her here: https://theicklepickles.enthuse.com/pf/sabahat-ahmed-mehmood

Here's Kiran's story
"Sabahat was born at St George’s Hospital in February 2024 and spent a week in the NICU before being transferred to Croydon Hospital.

During the move, I was incredibly anxious since no family member could accompany him. Arriving at Croydon Hospital, I was still anxious and upset. The staff immediately noticed my distress and went above and beyond to reassure me. They took extra time to explain everything, helping me feel more comfortable in the new environment.

The staff continued to be incredibly kind and caring throughout Sabahat’s five-week stay. We formed good connections with other parents through Ickle Pickles Charity, as we were all linked via WhatsApp. All the doctors consultants and psychotherapists were helpful in navigating Sabahat’s health and my own mental well-being.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time on the ward and were incredibly grateful to bring Sabahat home. They even supported some of my post-discharge queries. I’d like to express my gratitude to all the staff members in the Neonatal team."

To support other families going through similar journeys, you can register for our Fire or Lego walk here: https://theicklepickles.enthuse.com/cf/the-firewalk

If Lego or Firewalking isn't for you, then you are very welcome to come along as a spectator and cheer our brave challengers along! We will have an amazing raffle, children's activities, refreshments and home-baked treats! You can book your spectator ticket via the link above or pay on the door on the night.

You can use code CHS when you sign up to save £10 on a Firewalk entry ticket. Please note this code will expire on Sunday 8th November.

We're really looking forward to this community event to promote togetherness and support to those facing neonatal journeys, which we know don't stop when babies come home. Our event will bring parents together to share experiences, uplift and inspire each other and we will be there to celebrate that!

For more information on the event or how to support our neonatal unit, please contact Clare in the charity team: clare.parish@nhs.net