Big push for baby unit

ALL ready to go for the pram push

PUSHCHAIR-power saw mums and tots take to the streets of Shaw to raise money for Oldham’s special care baby unit.

Helen Ingham, a worker at Shaw and Crompton Children’s Centre, organised the sponsored pram push to say thank-you to the unit at the Royal Oldham Hospital where her son is currently being cared for.

Rushton Ingham was born 14 weeks early at just 26 weeks old on August 7, weighing a tiny 2lb 5oz, and has had to battle health problems.

But after receiving sterling care the little fighter now weighs 4lb 12oz and his brother, 11-month-old Rudey, and sister Lara (two) will welcome home the new addition to the family on Monday.

Sponsor money is still coming in for the fancy-dress pram push — which saw more than 15 mums and their children stroll around Shaw — but when added to £235 collected in buckets on the day it’s expected to total £1,000.

There was also a prize for the best fancy dress.

Rushton was born at the Royal Oldham but then transferred to Manchester’s St Mary’s Hospital for specialist care before returning to the special baby care unit six weeks ago.

He has made a remarkable recovery after suffering from a small hole in his heart that is now closing, chronic lung disease and bowel problems associated with premature babies.

His proud mum said: “It was a really hard time and very stressful. It was touch and go at the beginning as at that stage they don’t always make it. He’s had a few frights along the way but he’s a little fighter and he’s doing fine now. St Mary’s did a wonderful job and he’s ready to come home.

“He’s now in Oldham’s special care baby unit and I wanted to give something back. We wanted to say thank-you and raise some money. Everyone had a really good time and all the children enjoyed it. They all did really well.”

One of those taking part, Emma Greenwood, also wanted to help the unit for caring for her daughter Ella Rose Jackson last year.