A GROUP of men are preparing to climb three mountains while wearing baby carriers to raise money in memory of their children who died.
Eighteen members of the charity football team, Sands United Basingstoke, all of whom lost a child through stillbirth and neonatal death, are embarking on the Three Peaks Challenge later this year.
The team, which represents Sands, the UK's leading charity dedicated to stillbirth and neonatal death, working to reduce baby deaths and support anyone affected by pregnancy or baby loss, will climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and finally Snowdon wearing baby carriers weighted to them.
Stephen Kelly, chairman of Sands United Basingstoke, said: "We wanted to raise funds for a charity that means so much to us all.
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"The Three Peaks is a physically and mentally demanding challenge, with the emotional connection of the weighted baby carriers representing the collective birth weight of all our babies lost.
"With 18 different lads taking on this challenge, there are a variety of reasons, but all are centred around doing something special for our angels.
"Some had said it allows them to feel that little closer to heaven, others doing something special in memory of their babies.
"For me personally, this is my way of creating memories with my daughter, Amelia. I'll never be able to walk up a mountain with her by my side, but I can carry her in my heart."
The team will take on the challenge between September 23 and 25, and has already raised more than £12,700 for the cause. Click to donate: https://sands.enthuse.com/pf/sufcbasingstoke-3-peaks
Mr Kelly added: "I am overwhelmed by the amount raised. I am so proud of the lads for their efforts and grateful for the generosity of so many people.
"All the money raised is going to Sands charity, which provides support to bereaved families, improving maternity safety and bereavement care, and funding research to save babies' lives."
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