Hallie’s Story - Remembering Little Miss Sunshine

For Kerry and Scott, sharing the story of their daughter Hallie, their Little Miss Sunshine, is a way of honouring her life during Baby Loss Awareness Week, while also helping others understand the support available for families who face the unimaginable.

Hallie was born after what had been a normal pregnancy, until complications at 34 weeks meant she was delivered early, by caesarean section. What was initially thought to be a simple issue soon became more complex and after 26 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children, Hallie sadly passed away.

“We promised Hallie that we’d keep living life for her. Sharing her story is one of the ways we can do that.”

Hallie’s arrival was calm and special, despite the urgency. She made a single cry when she was born, but doctors quickly realised she was unable to breathe due to a blockage in her nose. She was admitted to the neonatal unit in Glasgow, while Kerry and Scott were offered a room at Crossbasket House, just five minutes away from Hallie’s beside.

“At first, everyone was optimistic. The plan was for a small surgery on her nose and then she’d be ok…but then more problems started to show up.”

Hallie was diagnosed with a heart defect, then necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), and finally CHARGE syndrome, a rare condition affecting multiple parts of the body.

Despite the setbacks, there were still moments of joy. Hallie showed her personality every day, kicking wires out of her way, responding to Kerry’s singing, and loving her head being stroked.

“She was sassy and kept the team on their toes. She recognised our voices and always let us know what she wanted.”

When her heart condition deteriorated suddenly, Hallie underwent emergency surgery. She initially recovered well, but soon her condition became fragile again and her parents were told she wouldn’t survive.

“The amazing hospital staff gave us our own room to spend our last moments with her. We got to have visits from family members, cuddle her, read her stories, and say goodnight properly. That meant everything to us.”

Projects funded by Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity helped create precious memories. Kerry and Scott made “Little Inky Feet” prints, received photos and videos through VCreate, and Kerry used the Express Yourself kit to express breast milk for Hallie, later donating some to the Milk Bank.

“Being able to do those little things gave us comfort. It helped us feel like normal parents in the middle of all the chaos.”

Crossbasket House provided a place for the couple to rest, a “home from home”, close to Hallie.

“The staff were incredible. They’d always ask how our day had been. In a sad, scary time, knowing you’re being supported is just lovely.”

Since Hallie’s passing, Kerry and Scott have attended bereavement support sessions at Crossbasket House.

“Going back to normal life can be so hard. Having that space to talk has been incredibly helpful.”

Kerry and Scott are determined to raise awareness of CHARGE syndrome, which can affect hearing, vision, breathing, and heart health.

“We’d never heard of CHARGE syndrome before, so we just want people to know about it and be able to access support when they need it.”

By telling her story, Kerry and Scott ensure Hallie’s memory continues to shine.

“She was only here for 26 days, but she made such a big impact. At her funeral, people got to know her story, her little quirks, and her personality. It was so positive to share who she really was.”

Next year, Kerry and Scott will run the Alloa Half Marathon to raise money for Crossbasket House.

“It’s our way of giving back. The House made such a difference to us, and we want other families to feel that same support. Running for Hallie is part of her legacy.”

Funds raised will help Crossbasket House, which is part of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, continue offering closeness and comfort for families facing the toughest of times.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for support. It’s there.”

Baby Loss Awareness Week is a time to remember Hallie and all the babies gone too soon, to break the silence around baby loss, and to highlight the importance of support for families during the most difficult time of their lives.