For our Together, we are Sands campaign, we are celebrating the impact of the connections made within and beyond the Sands community.
Thank you to James and Morgan for sharing their connections to our community – a community unlike any other.
Morgan: "I became involved with Sands after I had my twin boys Ethan & Oscar in 2011. They had twin to twin transfusion syndrome.
"I had emergency surgery on my womb in London but unfortunately it was not enough. We were thrown into a world of baby loss.
"I have since become the hospital and group liaison for my local group. My husband also created our local Sands football team.
"I help to run the monthly support meetings, organise the annual events and work alongside the bereavement midwives at our local hospital.
"So much of our time is dedicated to supporting families in the local area.
"We have made friends for life through this group. It’s the group nobody wants to be a part of but I couldn’t imagine not being part of it.
James: "In January 2022, my partner and I decided it would be a great idea to set up Sands United FC Farnborough. Morgan is heavily involved in Farnborough Sands and thought it would be an excellent support group for bereaved dads.
"To say it’s been a success is an understatement, we have 30 dads in our first year. We have supported dads through football, social events and walks.
"This group has been inspiring and created new friendships. This is not a team, it’s a family!
"We have recently run our annual tournament which attracted 8 charity teams and over 750 spectators through the turnstiles throughout the day.
"It’s safe to say, Farnborough are raising the awareness of Sands and the support available."
Read more stories of connections and keep checking for new ones throughout June.
Through all these different experiences, the one connection remains, our precious and loved babies.
Find out how you can get involved in the Together, we are Sands campaign.
Find out more about our Volunteering opportunities and learn more about Sands United.