A YOUNG Anglesey couple whose daughter required lifesaving treatment as a newborn have expressed their shock at plans to re-locate neonatal intensive care units across the border.
David Jackson, aged 24 and Alice Williams, aged 20, of Cemaes Bay have raised more than £3,500 towards baby units in Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and Ysbyty Gwynedd, ever since the birth of their 10-month old-daughter, Lily May.
The parents were inspired to raise the money after both hospitals played a part in helping Lily through the first few weeks of life, after she and Alice suffered birth complications when she was born six days late.
As passionate supporters of these hospitals, the parents were shocked to hear last week that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) plans to move neonatal intensive care facilities to Arrowe Park hospital in Liverpool have been approved.
David said: “The main concern for us was the distance to travel. It takes a lot of time to go to Liverpool and a lot of people can’t afford it.
“Maybe babies won’t survive the trip in the future, beacuse there’s a big difference between Bodelwyddan and Liverpool.
“In our case, if we had to go to Liverpool, Lilly May might not have made it. Families need support too, and it’s expensive to keep travelling to Liverpool.”
Despite the move of intensive care facilities, level one and two neonatal facilities will remain at both hospitals, and the young parents have pledged to continue their fundraising mission.
What are your views on BCUHB's proposals? Post a comment below, or contact reporter Tomos Hughes on 01248 387 421 or tomos.hughes@nwn.co.uk.