A Walsall couple who experienced the devastating loss of their baby son are now channelling their grief into remarkable support for other bereaved families, providing vital resources to help create precious memories.
Turning Tragedy into Compassionate Action
Katie Perry, aged 28, and her partner Liam Riley-Stewart, 25, faced unimaginable heartbreak when their son Layton was stillborn at Walsall Manor Hospital on July 9, 2024. Despite their profound sorrow, the couple found solace in the compassionate care they received and resolved to give back to the community that supported them during their darkest hours.
Creating Lasting Legacies Through Practical Support
In October 2024, the couple initiated their philanthropic journey by purchasing a cuddle cot in Layton's memory. This specialised equipment maintains a cooler temperature for babies who have passed away, allowing parents extended, precious time with their child. Building on this foundation, they recently returned to the hospital to donate a thoughtfully designed privacy pram, secured through their latest fundraising efforts.
The privacy pram, sourced through the 4Louis charity which specialises in supporting those affected by baby or child loss, carries the poignant message 'please respect my privacy'. It offers a discreet and dignified alternative for transporting babies within hospital settings, moving away from more clinical methods. Katie explained their motivation, stating: "We wanted to provide an alternative for parents as opposed to having to rely on colder, clinical approaches to taking their baby to the mortuary for example and the privacy pram also means parents can take their baby for a walk discreetly too."
Establishing Community Support Networks
Beyond physical donations, Katie has established Little Lights, a dedicated support group creating a safe space for bereaved parents to connect. Sessions are held monthly at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre, welcoming all parents regardless of the nature or timing of their loss. The next gathering is scheduled for 12 noon on Sunday, February 22.
Katie emphasised the importance of these initiatives: "It's important those of us who have lost a baby have the chance to make our memories too and get to do the things we would have done if we had been able to take our babies home. We've always said we'll do anything we can to help and give back because everyone was so kind and compassionate to us on the bereavement suite when we lost Layton."
Professional Recognition of Their Efforts
Bereavement midwife Laura Atkinson expressed profound gratitude for the couple's contributions: "We are so thankful to Katie and Liam for buying this privacy pram for us, it will make such a difference to our bereaved families and their babies. It really does feel like Layton's legacy, and he would be so proud of his incredible mummy and daddy who are, despite their own grief, so dedicated to helping others who have suffered loss."
The couple's fundraising success was bolstered by local businesses who generously provided raffle prizes, demonstrating community solidarity in supporting this meaningful cause. Together with their three-year-old daughter Lyla, Katie and Liam continue to honour Layton's memory through acts of kindness that transform personal tragedy into communal support.
