A Derbyshire mum is marking World Prematurity Day this November by celebrating the strength of local families and the support networks that help them thrive – after her own experience of having a premature baby left her realising just how vital that community is.
Beth Wheatley, owner of the Lots for Tots brand – which includes a popular magazine for parents of under-fives, an awards scheme and a brand-new nursery in Hilton – said her experience having her son Ezra six weeks early has given her a deep appreciation for the support families need when times are uncertain.
Little Ezra Wheatley, now a lively three-year-old and younger brother to Elijah, was born six weeks early weighing just 3lbs 11oz.
Thankfully despite his tiny size Ezra did not need neonatal care, something Beth said she would always be grateful for.
Beth said: “We were so lucky that Ezra didn’t need to go onto neonatal care. That experience really opened my eyes to how strong and resilient families who go through that time are. I have huge respect for those parents and the professionals who support them.”
Beth says that period highlighted how important it is to have trusted places to turn to both for advice and a sense of belonging.
She said: “Through Lots for Tots we have built a platform that connects parents, celebrates local charities and small businesses and recognises those who make family life brighter across Derbyshire.
“Everything we do at Lots for Tots comes back to one word – community. Our magazine supports families day to day, our awards shine a light on the incredible people and organisations supporting them and our nursery helps parents feel connected right from the start.”
The Lots for Tots Awards, which attract thousands of nominations each year, celebrate the best of Derbyshire’s family community, from early years educators and healthcare professionals to volunteers and local charities who go the extra mile.
“World Prematurity Day is a reminder of how much families depend on the network around them,” Beth added. “Across Derbyshire we’re lucky to have so many people who genuinely care and at Lots for Tots, we’re proud to help bring those people together.”
World Prematurity Day is marked on November 17.
This press release was prepared by Penguin PR. For more information, please contact Kirsty Green on 07970 627385 or email [email protected]
