£1,200 raised in memory of tragic baby Dominic

Emilly Oliver, seven with Heather Dean-Leadley from Busy Bugs at the fund-raising event in memory of baby Dominic Leo at Inn on the Wharf

Dominic was stillborn at full term in June this year and since then his mum Viki Shaw and dad Dan Lord has raised awareness of stillbirths and are also raising funds to help to support other families in a similar situations.

“I had a relatively normal pregnancy, no abnormalities with the baby and went into natural labour,” said Viki. “It was only when we got to the hospital we were told that there was no heartbeat and our baby boy had died in the womb.”

Viki has already spearheaded events to collect more than £1,000 for SANDS (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity) in memory of Dominic and now they are raising funds to create a legacy in Dominic’s name by buying a cold cot at a Lancashire hospital.

“A cold cot is a special cot which allows parents to stay with the baby longer and have the time they need,” said Viki.

“After Dominic was born we had the use of a cold cuddlecot at Burnley Birth Centre.

“This meant we were able to spend almost three days with him. In this time we got to hold him, kiss him, talk to him and take precious photographs and make keepsakes. These are memories which we will always remember.

“The cold cots cost around £1,500 but we want to also build a crib in Dominic’s name to go with it.

“It would mean so much when it happens. It won’t bring Dominic back but it will help other families in similar situations. It will help me feel a little bit happier helping others and leaving a legacy for Dominic.”

Viki, who is also raising money for local charity Friends of Serenity which helps bereaved families, says there are a series of events planned to raise funds in Dominic’s name.

There was face-painting and cake stalls during a family fun day at the Inn on the Wharf and a band and open mic night followed to help raise the £1,200 - they have now collected £2,800 altogether towards Dominic’s cold cot appeal.

Viki’s sister-in-law Jane Wilding and her friend Hannah Cutler are running the Lancaster half-marathon in November and there will be a Hallowe’en fancy dress night on October 31st at Lula Mae’s in Colne. It’s £2 on the door and there will be live music.

“There are other events planned such as car boot sales and table top sales,” added Viki. “We still have a way to go but we know we will get there.”

To help Dominic’s appeal go to www.youcaring.com/dominic-leo-s-appeal-help-us-raise-funds-for-cold-cots-394954 or for more information go to www.facebook.com/DominicLeoLove.