The Chiltern Chase 2007 is almost upon us again and this year it is even more important that it is successful. We need to build up some momentum in order to really establish the event and prevent it from being a one hit wonder. Last years event was great for the village of Ewelme. It was a fun day, supported by a wide range of people, as well as being a highly effective way of raising money.
This year we are supporting the same two charities, as the original organisers are all involved again. Although we have one new organiser, it did not take long to agree to support FOES and SSNAP as they so very well capture the mission of the Chiltern Chase ‘Running for Life, Health and Opportunity’ for children and babies. Hopefully the event will become established as part of life in Ewelme and, as years go by, different people will step up to the mark to help organise the event. They will perhaps be motivated by different charities that are close to their hearts.
For me personally, the motivation to raise money for SSNAP (Support for the Sick Newborn and their Parents) is still strong and close to my heart. SSNAP is the charity that provides additional funding to the Special Care Baby Unit at the John Radcliffe.
My youngest daughter Sydney was in the Special Care Baby Unit for nearly six months. Throughout that time she was looked after by a very special bunch of skilled doctors and nurses who work in tough conditions and an incredibly stressful environment. Although the government funds the basic requirements of the unit, they always need extra money for new equipment and to improve the facilities within the unit. SSNAP liaise with the staff at the Special Care Unit and also listen to parents like my wife and I who have spent time in the unit.
Last year, courtesy of the Chiltern Chase, we were able to present a cheque for three thousand pounds, which is being used to furnish a new parents’ sitting room. As parents who spent hour after hour every day and many nights at the unit we really understand the value of this extra facility.
The Unit is divided into two sections; A side and B side. A side is a nursery used mostly for babies with less critical problems, like initial feeding difficulties or Jaundice or for babies in the recovery process. B side is where the intensive care unit ‘Hot Room’ is, and where more seriously ill babies are provided with intensive care. Until recently there was only one sitting room (where parent/visitors could go, if for some reason they could not be with their baby).
When there is an emergency or difficulty with a baby in the intensive care unit, any parent/visitors would have to be moved out of the way. Up until recently they would have to wait in one sitting room on the A side. Often we would be waiting in this room with other parents whose babies were not seriously ill.
It’s tough (perhaps selfish), but true to say that when your baby’s life is hanging in the balance you just do not want to be making small talk with someone whose baby will probably be going home tomorrow.
Money very well spent!
Richard Howard