A CHARITY aimed at improving maternity services and equipment at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital has received a £500 boost, thanks to Droitwich Lions Ladies.
Frankie’s Legacy, which was given the funds, was founded by Russell and Lisa Ventura after their son Francesco ‘Frankie’ Enrico Ventura was stillborn at Worcestershire Royal Hospital in November 2013.
The cash was raised through a monthly book sale on the first Saturday of the month at St Andrew’s Parish Centre. The ladies have a stall there selling cakes and preserves and also bric-a-brac.
Angela Phillips of Droitwich Lions Ladies said: “Hearing Lisa on local radio really touched me and when I told our ladies about Frankie’s Legacy there was an overwhelming desire to help this wonderful cause.”
Russell and Lisa said: “We are over the moon with this donation and very grateful to the Droitwich Lions Ladies, as we can now equip one delivery suite room with items to make every couple who uses it more comfortable when they go in to have their babies.
“We aim to equip all ten rooms with comfortable chairs, fold out beds and other home comforts.
“Every penny we raise will go towards enhancing the facilities in the delivery suite and help parents-to-be feel more comfortable and relaxed when they arrive to have a baby.
“We know from first-hand experience how important it is to feel as relaxed as possible during giving birth, and know these additions will make a huge difference to the experience and wellbeing of parents-to-be.”
The pair also run the Worcetershire Bereavement Support Group an early pregnancy loss, stillbirth or neonatal death. Visit www.wbsgroup.org.uk for more information.
They have also joined forces with another local charity Towards Tomorrow Together to provide memory boxes to give to bereaved parents at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
