Finding Zoe

Paula Jackson who lives in Guildford, Surrey worked as a children's nanny for over nineteen years.  Paula looked after children, ages ranging from 3 months - 13 years old, and specialised in families with multiple births and special needs.  In 2005 Paula decided on a change of direction and is now a Medical Receptionist.

Paula became involved in the work of the Meningitis Trust as the result of a life changing experience.  As the consequence of that same experience in 1998 Paula founded 'Lean on Me'. 'Lean on Me' is a phone link service that supports childcare workers when a child in their care becomes seriously ill or dies. 'Lean on Me' is the first of its kind in the country.

It was in January 2003, whilst visiting Australia, when Paula first heard of Zoe and Clive Gentle during a conversation with a mutual friend.  That was to be a conversation that once again changed her life.  On arrival back in England, Paula set out on the long and emotional journey to find out as much as she could about Zoe, a baby who had died over forty years before.

As the result of finding Zoe, Paula decided she wanted to do something positive in honour of Zoe and all the other children who have died.  In July 2004, Paula with the support of the Military went on to establish The Friends of Aldershot Military Cemetery and the 'Brief Lives - Remembered' campaign.

This is an inspiring story about the search for baby Zoe, a twin who died at birth and whose brother in Australia finds peace forty years on, after the steadfast endeavours of the author to mark Zoe's life and death, the special bond that always exists between twins.

Keith Read, Director TAMBA (Twins and Multiple Births Association)