A Night in Black & White, World Prematurity Charity Ball

Welcome, everyone, to our 6th Annual World Prematurity Charity Ball!
We are beyond excited to gather with all of you once again in support of a cause close to our hearts. This year, we are honoured to raise funds for The Royal Bolton NICU, The Royal Oldham NICU, and the Ronald McDonald Charity House Manchester.

Over the past five years, we’ve witnessed first-hand the incredible impact of these charities, and we’re proud to continue our support for the vital work they do for families and babies in need. Your decision to join us on the 8th of November, by purchasing a ticket, will help us to raise as much money as possible.

In 2019, our family endured a challenging 126 days within the NICU, a time that none of us had ever imagined. Before then, we had never experienced life with a sick baby, let alone two. Ava and Archie were born at just 25 weeks—three and a half months premature—and they were extremely unwell. Without the unwavering support of the incredible neonatal staff and the help of neonatal charities, we wouldn't have made it through. Now, nearly six years later, we are more committed than ever to fundraising for NICUs and charities, so that other families can have the best possible experience during their journeys.

Our World Prematurity Charity Ball is dedicated to raising awareness and support for the doctors and nurses who care for our tiniest and most vulnerable babies. It also helps generate crucial funds for the essential facilities that make such care possible. Over the past five years, we've raised a total of £89,021.72, with a fantastic £30,192.20 raised at our 2024 event alone.

Why we’re supporting The Royal Bolton NICU
In 2019, Ava and Archie began their 126-day NICU stay at the Bolton Neonatal Unit, where they remained for almost four and a half months. Here they receive around-the-clock intensive care which ultimately saved their life.

Bolton NICU collaborates with family-integrated care (FiCare), promoting the involvement of families in the care of their infants in the NICU. Recognising the physical separation's impact on both parents and infants, Family-Centered Care advocates for greater parent involvement in healthcare planning. We are currently working alongside Bolton Neonatal Unit, to see where the funds can best support this year but the families sat by their baby's incubator side will be at the heart of where the funds help.

Why We're Supporting The Royal Oldham NICU
This year we are proud to once again support The Royal Oldham NHS Care Organisation. The Oldham NICU provides specialised care for 37 premature and sick babies, contributing to the limited intensive care units in Greater Manchester.

Thanks to the funds raised at the 2024 Charity Ball, The Royal Oldham NICU is in the process of renovating its Bereavement Room. This is a space where parents are taken to receive devastating news, such as the loss of their baby or when a baby’s condition does not improve. The starkness of this room needed a compassionate update, and we’re proud to contribute to creating a more comforting environment for grieving families. In addition, we are thrilled to be working on the installation of state-of-the-art technology within the NICU. This will significantly enhance the care provided to the tiniest, most fragile babies, and we can’t wait to see to share the impact it will have once complete.

Why We're Supporting The Ronald McDonald Charity House
At seven weeks old, Archie underwent lifesaving surgery at St Mary's Children's Hospital. During this challenging time, The Ronald McDonald House provided invaluable support providing us with a bedroom only a small walk away from his incubator, making everything a bit more manageable.

Ronald McDonald House Manchester plays a crucial role for families with children undergoing treatment at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital and St Mary's Neonatal Unit. The House offers a "home away from home" free of charge, providing a comfortable and supportive environment. The team understands the toll a hospital stay takes on a family and strives to offer the care and understanding they deserve.

We know none of this would be possible without all your support and we invite you to join us for an unforgettable night with a three-course meal, drinks on arrival, live music, and entertainment. Last year was incredible, but we aim to make this year even bigger and better. Please continue to support us in raising even more funds for our chosen charities, making a meaningful difference in the lives of premature babies and their families.

“Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” – Winnie the Pooh.
Dress code: Black Tie and Cocktail Dresses