Morton manager and partner raise £18k in memory of baby daughter

Dougie Imrie and Lauren McCreaddie (centre) with staff from the University Hospital Wishaw neonatal unit. Kate Boyle, Senior Midwife for Neonatal and Transitional Care, is second from the left.

Greenock Morton manager Dougie Imrie and his partner, Lauren McCreaddie, have raised £18,000 in memory of their baby daughter.

Remi was only 1lb 4oz when she was born 14 weeks premature on 30 July.

She was cared for in the neonatal unit at University Hospital Wishaw but died almost three weeks later.

The couple returned to the Lanarkshire hospital to hand over the donation which staff said would make a "real difference".

Imrie said: "We'll never be able to thank the staff enough for everything they did for Remi and for us.

"Those 20 days we had with her were the most special of our lives, and the care, compassion and support we received gave us memories we'll hold forever.

"Lauren and I wanted to do something to give back, and to help other families who might find themselves in the same situation."

The ex-Hamilton, Morton and St Mirren player added he was "humbled" by the generosity of those who supported the family.

Lauren said: "For 20 days, Remi fought with every ounce of strength she had, showing us all what true bravery looks like.

"The staff in the neonatal unit went above and beyond for Remi, just as they do for every baby in their care.

"They were our strength on the darkest of days, supporting us in ways words can never fully express. They are, without doubt, real-life angels."

'We are incredibly grateful'

The couple held a collection for the unit at Remi's funeral but said they wanted to continue fundraising.

Lauren added: "It's the very least we can do to give back to those who gave us so much - so that they can keep helping families like ours through their most difficult journeys."

The funds will go towards supporting the neonatal unit and helping families whose babies require intensive care.

Senior midwife Kate Boyle said: "We are incredibly grateful to Dougie and Lauren for thinking of us and other parents at such a difficult time.

"Their donation will make a real difference in supporting families.

"On behalf of all of the team, we want to thank them for their kindness and generosity, and for honouring Remi in such a meaningful way."

The donation coincides with Baby Loss Awareness Week, which runs from 9 to 15 October.