Mums who formed unbreakable bond as babies battled in intensive care join forces to help sick kids

Two Scottish mothers have come together to support families spending Christmas in intensive care, after forming a strong bond while their babies fought for their lives. Roseann Singleton and Emma Malloy experienced the challenges of having their newborns in the Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Units (PICU and NICU) at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow. Roseann’s son River Mbunzama and Emma’s daughter Millie Malloy faced serious medical issues as infants. River, born with Tracheobronchomalacia, underwent numerous surgeries during his 11 months in hospital, while Millie had complex heart defects and underwent open-heart surgery at just five weeks old, with her heart stopped for 19 hours. Despite the uncertainties and fears, the mothers found solace in each other’s company.

During their time in the PICU, they received support in the form of vouchers for Just Eat and Smyths Toys from families who had gone through similar situations. Now, Roseann and Emma are giving back by raising funds to provide vouchers for families currently in the PICU, with plans to extend their support to the NICU. Emma shared that their own experiences last Christmas drove them to offer a glimmer of hope and festive cheer to families facing similar challenges this year. Both mothers emphasised the importance of the support they received, as it helped them feel less alone during a harrowing time.

Their children, River and Millie, have shown remarkable recoveries and are now thriving despite ongoing medical issues. River, now 16, and Millie, 13 months, are described as energetic and mischievous, embodying the resilience they displayed in their early battles. The mothers have received overwhelming support in their fundraising efforts, reflecting the community’s compassion and understanding.

This heartwarming story exemplifies the power of empathy and solidarity in facing adversity. The compassion shown by Roseann and Emma towards families in similar situations highlights the importance of support networks during challenging times. Their initiative not only provides practical aid but also serves as a symbol of hope and reassurance for those navigating difficult circumstances. By coming together to uplift others, these mothers exemplify the true spirit of compassion and resilience.

In a season of giving, their efforts remind us of the importance of reaching out to those in need, spreading kindness, and standing together in solidarity. The bond forged between these mothers during a time of crisis has blossomed into a source of strength and inspiration, illuminating the ability of human connection to overcome even the most daunting challenges.