Fundraising sky dive for baby Sebastian born 13 weeks early

A sponsored sky dive is taking place this weekend to raise money for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH).

After a textbook healthy pregnancy Sarah Kelf, from Norwich, woke up feeling not quite right on Saturday 2nd February. After a visit to the drop-in-centre that morning, she went into spontaneous labour at just 27 weeks. Baby Sebastian was delivered in theatre later that day weighing just 2lb 4oz.

Sebastian was immediately given serious intervention by specialist medical staff and then taken to the intensive care room on NICU.

Sarah said: “When I first saw Sebastian he was a mass of wires and tubes. The staff were wonderful, they explained everything that was happening and made us feel welcome at all times. Some days things went well, sometimes he would take a step backwards. It was like an emotional roller coaster.”

Sadly Sebastian suffered a serious bleed to the brain and Sarah and Mike were told they should prepare for the worst in terms of possible disability. Following Sebastian’s 64 day stay on NICU, Mike and Sarah were able to bring Sebastian home.

Sarah added: “We have no doubt that our baby would not be alive if it were not for the amazing work of the NICU team. Sebastian’s journey is on-going and we will be going to Addenbrooke's soon for surgery but he is doing well. He now weighs 6lb 10oz and can roll from one side to the other and smiles at us – not bad considering he should not be here yet!”

Sarah’s sister, Claire Brindley, will be raising money for NICU by taking part in a sponsored sky dive at 12.30pm on Saturday 4th May, a special date as it is Sebastian’s actual due date. So far Claire has raised over £2300. The money will be spent on items on the unit’s “wish list” – items they would like which are not within the NHS budget, from special snuggle blankets to special equipment. You can sponsor Claire by visiting https://www.justgiving.com/Claire-Brindley1/ 

Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Charitable Fund (Charity No.1048170) aims to improve patient, staff and visitor welfare at Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital, Cromer and District Hospital and Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital.