A MALDON couple whose child tragically died shortly after birth have raised more than £10,000 for a hospital’s baby bereavement suite.

Amie and Aaron Stephens organised a charity golf day to raise the money in memory of their daughter, Havana.

Born prematurely at just 37-weeks-old, Havana’s parents were given invaluable support by the Blossom Suite staff at Broomfield Hospital.

Thanks to the charity golf day, they have been able to donate £10,000 to the baby bereavement suite at the hospital.

Mrs Stephens said: “Staying in the suite with Havana meant that we could cherish the small amount of time we had with our daughter, and we could introduce family to her and capture special memories of our time together.

“At such a tragic time I knew that I was in safe and supportive hands before we even arrived at the hospital.”

And Mrs Stephens further lauded the dedication of the bereavement team during the difficult time.

“The team went above and beyond - I can’t imagine having been without them at such a time,” she added.

“Ensuring that other parents get access to this same level of support is crucial.”

Since their loss, the couple have met with others who have experienced a similar bereavement and were struck by the lack of support many received.

Mrs Stephens added: “Ensuring that other parents get access to this same level of support is crucial.

“We’re so pleased that we were able to raise such a significant amount of money to help the unit continue its work.”

In recognition of their generosity and selflessness, Tabitha Stuthridge, specialist bereavement midwife, said: “This is such an amazing legacy for baby Havana and we are extremely grateful that Amie and Aaron chose to support our bereaved families.

“The generosity of their fundraising will provide memory making and support materials for families, which is something we couldn’t offer without the fundraising support.”