Ink-credible Fundraising
In late 2023, Kieran and Caitriona welcomed twin boys, born at just 24 weeks. Very sadly, one twin, Bailey, passed away after 4 days, and their other twin, William, was in critical condition. The family, who live almost an hour away, were offered a room at Crossbasket House.
Crossbasket House
Caitriona shares, “Once we got a phone call to say there was a room available, Kieran went down to check in and when I got there all the staff were very welcoming and friendly. Summer showed us around the House and where we would be sleeping- we felt very comfortable.”
Kieran and Caitriona stayed for over 8 weeks at the House, spending both Christmas and New Year there during their stay. They spent the time with other families, having mealtimes together and chatting. This gave the couple some normality and distraction during such an incredibly difficult time.
“While we were there, even though the House team knew how bad our situation was, they made us feel happy, uplifted, and left us walking to the hospital with a smile on our faces.”
The Communal kitchen at Crossbasket House was one of the most thoughtful and practical amenities for Caitriona and Kieran.
“Having your own cooking space and fridge made it easier for us to make meals when we got back from the hospital as it was normally late at night. There were also baskets that all the families could share which included items you might’ve forgotten in your shopping, for example sauces, seasoning, tinfoil, cling film.
During his time in hospital, William had meningitis, sepsis, seizures and strep B. The 5-minute walk from the House to the hospital really meant a lot because when something happened and we got a phone call, we knew we weren’t far away so we would be with him soon.”
“While we were there, we met loads of amazing families that turned into good friendships, and we still talk to this day.”
Kieran
“After a very long and stressful day of being in the hospital, we would come back to the House to make some food. Other parents would be there, and we would all have a good laugh and a joke- it would make us forget in that moment how stressful our situations were.”
Giving Back
One of Kieran’s family members owns tattoo shop “Inked Magic” in Dalry, and very kindly held a fundraiser in support of Crossbasket House. All the designs tattooed during the event were themed around the House, including flash sheets inspired by our animal and flower themed rooms. The event raised an amazing £900 for families like Caitriona and Kieran’s.