In a remarkable show of resilience and gratitude, four-year-old Rosie, who overcame a challenging premature birth, is lacing up her running shoes to participate in the Mini Great North Run for the second time.
Rosie’s journey from a tiny premature newborn fighting for survival to an energetic young girl has inspired her to give back to the Gateshead Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU), which played a crucial role in her early life.
Born seven weeks early following an emergency C-section, Rosie was immediately transferred to the SCBU, while her mother Claire was recovering in the Postnatal Ward.
Reflecting on that difficult time, Claire shares, “It was incredibly stressful as parents. Handing over your newborn to the care of others goes against every instinct. But the SCBU team was extraordinary—they didn’t just care for Rosie; they supported us every step of the way.”
Rosie spent 12 days in the unit, and though it was an anxious time for her family, the compassionate and dedicated SCBU staff provided consistent updates and involved the family in every decision about Rosie’s care.
Claire says: “The staff became like family to us. Their empathy and support made a world of difference during such a distressing time.”
Two years ago, after watching the Great North Run near her home in Jarrow, Rosie decided she wanted to join in. She and her family had taken a bucket of jelly babies to hand out to the runners, and the idea of earning her own jelly babies sparked her enthusiasm.
Last year, Rosie completed her very first race. Now four years old, she’s preparing for her second run with a stronger sense of the cause she’s supporting. Brimming with energy and excitement, she’s been practising her “fast running” at the park, eager to tackle the challenge once more.
Rosie can’t wait to high-five spectators along the route and proudly show off her medal, which she plans to take to school when she starts reception next week. Last year, she raised an impressive £453 for Gateshead Health Charity in support of SCBU, and she hopes to raise even more this year. When asked why she wants to help, Rosie said: “I want to buy sweeties and medicine for all the little babies to make them big and strong like me.”
Rosie’s fundraising efforts don’t stop at the finish line. Earlier this year, she personally delivered a cheque to the SCBU, where she received care as a newborn. Her visit was a heartwarming reunion with the staff who supported her family during those challenging days.
Claire credits the calming environment of the SCBU and Postnatal Ward with easing her anxiety and believes it has contributed to Rosie’s calm and laid-back nature today. “The support we received made all the difference,” Claire says. “We want to give back and help other families going through similar experiences.”
Clare Drummond, Manager of Gateshead Health Charity, expressed her gratitude for Rosie’s efforts. “We are incredibly grateful to Rosie for her amazing fundraising. Donations like hers allow us to go beyond standard care, enhancing the experience for babies and families here in Gateshead. We can’t wait to cheer her on during the Mini Great North Run 2024!”
The Special Care Baby Unit provides critical care for premature and sick newborns, supporting families and midwives to ensure the best outcomes for these vulnerable infants. By fundraising, Rosie and her family are helping SCBU continue its vital work, making a difference in the lives of babies who need extra care.
To support Rosie or learn more about upcoming Gateshead Health Charity fundraisers, follow us on Facebook at Gateshead Health Charity. If you’d like to get involved in our 2024 events, visit our events page for more information.
