A mother whose daughter was stillborn has started raising money to help others going through the same situation, just days after her tragic loss.
Arbroath woman Danielle Melville gave birth to Harper Shae on Friday October 31, in the Tulip Suite of Ninewells Hospital, and now she wants to help support their work.
She had found out the day before that her little girl had passed away and gave birth in the private suite, which gives parents of stillborn children time to grieve away from parents of healthy babies in the main ward.
While the suite was a source of comfort to Danielle during her difficult time she discovered that another mum in the same situation had no choice but to give birth in the main ward as the Tulip Suite was not available.
Danielle said: “They told me I could be in the room for as long as I needed. When the time was right I wanted to say goodbye.
“The staff were so lovely but after I left I heard another mum in the same situation had to go into the normal labouring room.
“I really felt for that woman and my heart really breaks to think that they only have one room.
“Before I’d even left hospital I set up the fund and the generosity of people has been overwhelming.”
Harper Shae’s funeral took place on Monday and as well as the funeral collection Danielle has raised £520 so far through her fund.
The wake took place in the Ram’s Heid in Arbroath and Danielle said she had been blown away by the owner’s support, both in donations and by offering to host future fundraising events.
As well as raising money for a new suite, Danielle also wants to raise awareness as the mother-of-three also lost her son in 2009.
She said: “If I am honest when I heard she had passed away before she was born I thought it would be easier but it wasn’t.
“My son was a live birth but he died after four days so I had time with him. I didn’t even get to see Harper Shae move her arms or legs. I got nothing.
“I decided I can do one of two things. I can sit around feeling sorry for myself or I can try to help other mothers and families who are going through the same thing.”
Anyone who would like to help support the cause can either donate or share Danielle’s fund page at www.gofundme.com/gkpt5k.