28/01/2026
During our Butterfly Bake Campaign, we’re sharing how bereavement support continues after a child’s death.
Mums Ash and Shell tell us about their baby daughter Emmy and how Claire House supported their family:
“When we were first pregnant, we never imagined anything could go wrong. However, at the 20-week scan, we were told Emmy had a heart condition — our whole world fell apart.
“At first, we said no to Claire House, thinking it meant the end. We’re so glad we changed our minds. They gave us support we didn’t know we needed.
“They helped us with a birth plan, and during our C-section, a team member was there, making us feel seen and heard and capturing memories we’ll treasure forever.
“Emmy was born with complex health needs. The first diagnosis was hyperplastic left heart syndrome, but there were lots of others, and she was put on end-of-life care.
"At four weeks old, doctors thought she was too ill to operate. Claire House arranged a follow-up, and having someone compassionate to talk to was vital.
“We spent six months in Alder Hey. When everything felt isolating, Claire House reminded us we weren’t alone. With our other daughters, Freya and Layla, it was hard having to prioritise. Lucy and Paula from Claire House stayed with Emmy in intensive care, so she was never alone and we could take a short break.
"After repeated hospital stays, Emmy died of pneumonia aged nine months. We were in shock.
“Bringing her to Claire House was like having her back. We could bathe her, put on her cream so she smelled like her, and stay in the Butterfly Suite, knowing she was being cared for and that her favourite music was playing. We also made a page for her in the memory book.
“We were anxious when we got pregnant again – Emmy died in March 2023, and Roux arrived the following March. Claire House was there throughout.
“Layla’s residential and Freya’s sibling trip gave them a supportive community, and Roux joins the mini siblings group. We’ve also had bereavement support from the Wellbeing and Therapies Team, talking through our emotions.
“Even though we lost our baby, Claire House’s support has helped us honour her in life.”
To help families like Emmy's, get involved in the Butterfly Bake throughout January to March 🦋
Sign up today 👉 https://www.clairehouse.org.uk/get-involved/support-us/events/butterfly-bake/
