A BRAVE woman who led a fundraising drive to give the gift of time to grieving parents has spoken out to mark Baby Loss Awareness Week.

Vicki Atkinson, of, Rhyl, gave birth to Amelia Grace Atkinson in June 2015. Amelia was born stillborn and Vicki, and her former partner, Matt, were able to create memories with their 'sleeping beauty' thanks to a cuddle cot - a cooling system which looks like a conventional Moses basket that regulates the baby’s body temperature.

The experience sparked a determination in Vicki, 26, who went on to raise £1,600 to install a ‘cuddle cot’ at Glan Clwyd Hospital.

The ever-determined beauty therapist was among a number of passionate residents and fundraisers to ask Denbighshire County Council this year if they would turn the town pink and blue for Baby Loss Awareness week.

The local authority is lighting up the Sky Tower between October 9 and 15 in the colours.

Vicki said: "It was very important to myself to shine the pink and blue lights for baby loss awareness week. There is still such a stigma. I want people to know they are not alone.

"When I lost Amelia, I didn't speak about it at first which made it difficult to grieve. I feel it is crucial to take about how your feeling to help with the grieving process.

"Since losing Amelia in 2015, times have been up and down. I find it more difficult now than I ever have because I never properly grieved.

"I have been extremely lucky to have such an amazing support unit. My parents too have had a stillborn so their support has been out of this world."

Vicki said she finds it comforting to talk of Amelia.

"It makes me feel like my daughter is still of value to people even though she can't be here," she added.

In September last year, Vicki and Matt hosted a Angels Ball Black Tie and Sparkle charity event at The Kinmel and Kinspa in Abergele.

Vicki said: "The responses we had were out of this world. We raised a total of £8,600 and were able to purchase the snuggle blanket for Glan Clwyd Hospital.

"I hope people can find comfort this week in knowing the town supports us all and also our families and friends who too have to grieve for the loss.

"My advice to anyone who struggles with this heartache is to never avoid speaking out about their child. They were still born."

The awareness week will culminate with the global “Wave of Light”. Families across the world will light a candle at 7pm in memory of all the babies that have died too soon.