Parents Take on Half Marathon Challenge in Memory of Baby Daisy
The parents of a baby girl who lived for only 11 precious days are embarking on an emotional challenge to honor her memory, raising vital funds for the hospice that provided crucial care during their family's darkest hours. In 2022, Daisy Hembley was born suddenly and unresponsively at home, leading to severe brain damage due to a lack of oxygen despite immediate medical efforts. After spending a week in the hospital, Daisy was transferred to Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, where she passed away surrounded by her loving family.
Running for Rainbows: A Tribute to Daisy
Now, her parents, Sophie and Liam Hembley, have committed to running the Leicestershire Half Marathon on Sunday, February 22, in Daisy's memory. With no prior running experience, they are pushing themselves far beyond their comfort zones to give back to the hospice they describe as "home when you need it most." Sophie shared, "Everyone did everything they could for Daisy when she was born, but her injury was too severe. When we came to Rainbows for end-of-life care, we were heartbroken and terrified. But from the moment we arrived, we were wrapped in care."
She elaborated on the difference Rainbows made, noting that in the hospital, Daisy was in an incubator, but at the hospice, they could hold her properly. "I don't think we ever put her down. That time together means everything to us now," Sophie said. The hospice alleviated everyday worries, allowing the family to focus on being parents to Daisy and their three-year-old daughter, Willow. They were provided with meals, rest, and gentle guidance from nurses, creating cherished memories.
Family Support and Lasting Impact
Willow, Daisy's big sister, also received support at Rainbows, which Sophie emphasized made an enormous difference. "Willow thought it was like a holiday camp. We were able to spend time together as a family, going in the hydrotherapy pool and having massages. Those nurturing moments, as a family of four, are memories we never thought we would have," she recalled. Inspired by a friend who ran the London Marathon in Daisy's memory in 2024, Sophie and Liam decided to undertake their own challenge. So far, they have raised £695, with Willow and their youngest child, Ronnie, now almost two, cheering them on.
Sophie admitted, "We were probably a bit naïve about how hard it would be. But every donation, every message of support, reminds us why we're doing this. What happened to Daisy was so sudden and unexpected. We truly don't know how we would have survived it without Rainbows. If running 13 miles helps another family have the same care and precious time that we did, then every step will be worth it."
Hospice's Role and Community Response
Claire Hoggan, Senior Events Officer at Rainbows, highlighted the hospice's unique role, stating, "Rainbows is the only hospice in the East Midlands able to provide specialist end-of-life care for babies like Daisy. We are incredibly grateful to Sophie and Liam for taking on this challenge in their daughter's memory. Their strength and generosity will help us continue to be there for other families during the most difficult days of their lives." The community is encouraged to support their fundraising efforts, with donations contributing to ongoing hospice services for families in need.
