Plympton couple Lauren and Ryan Yeoman welcomed their twins into the world on December 21 2021 at Derriford Hospital, 17 days before their due date.
As if their IVF journey hadn’t been a big enough rollercoaster, baby Ezra was quickly transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care unit (NICU) due to breathing difficulties.
Inspired by the truly amazing care that they received whilst there, Ezra’s dad, Ryan, has been inspired to fundraise for the Keep Me Close Appeal under the umbrella of Plymouth Hospitals Charity.
This amazing fundraising appeal uses funds raised to support the provision and development of parental accommodation for those parents of babies who are being cared for on the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
The NICU at UHP cares for babies born from around the Devon and Cornwall peninsula who have either been born prematurely or with other life-threatening illnesses. As the ward has the highest level of expertise and equipment, the ward cares for babies from all over the South West and babies are often transferred in from other hospitals for a higher level of care when needed. It is the only ward of its type this side of Bristol.
On Sunday July 10, between 9.30am and 5pm, Ryan and his friends and family have organised a five-a-side football tournament for the NICU Cup along with other family fun to take place at Manadon Sports Hub. On the day, there will also be a raffle, entertainment and refreshments, all set to provide a fun day out for the whole family.
Ryan said:
“We have been overwhelmed with the positive response from the NICU cup and have had to increase the capacity of players on the day. We are hoping to raise awareness and money for the phenomenal work that the staff at Derriford’s NICU do. The money will, in turn, help provide the best care possible for other babies who are unwell. Please consider coming along for what is set to be a great day out.”
Corinne Bailey, charity manager said:
“As a NICU parent, time spent in the hospital is worrying and stressful. It is a real testament, although no surprise on my part, to our wonderful colleagues that Ryan has decided to fundraise for such an important cause. The Keep me Close appeal is something that takes a little bit of pressure out of the hospital stay for parents of unwell babies. Best of luck for the day, all.”
