Hero NICU Nurse Celebrates Raising £50,000

Emma, a dedicated nurse in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), has raised an astonishing £50,000 for Cots for Tots and the babies she cares for each and every day.

For over 12 years, she has devoted herself to fundraising, helping to make a difference in the lives of countless families and their babies. Every week, Emma can be found at her fundraising stall at the hospital, selling beautifully knitted items like cardigans, soft toys, and blankets, all lovingly crafted by our incredible community of knitters.

In recognition of her remarkable efforts, Emma soared high above Bristol at this year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. She flew in the iconic Wallace & Gromit’s Moon Rocket hot air balloon, piloted by Exclusive Ballooning. This flight is a well-deserved celebration of her unwavering dedication and the significant impact she has made.

“I first started running the stall back in 2012. I’ve been here one morning every week, depending on my shifts, ever since. So, to be here now, having raised £50,000, is something I never thought possible. I know from first-hand experience how vital Cots for Tots is. Day after day, I see the huge benefits that it brings to the babies in the NICU and their families. And it’s for them, that I’ve spent the last 12 years fundraising.”

Emma, NICU Nurse

The Wallace & Gromit’s Moon Rocket hot air balloon is inspired by Aardman’s classic film ‘A Grand Day Out’. This eye-catching balloon makes a perfect tribute to Emma’s extraordinary fundraising journey.

“Emma is incredible. She has spent the last 12 years going over and above to support the families and babies on the NICU. The amount she’s raised is just fantastic and we are all incredibly proud of her efforts… We hope she had an amazing time on her hot air balloon flight because she truly deserves it.”

Kate Jones, Senior Community Fundraising Manager, The Grand Appeal

Thank you, Emma, for your relentless passion and for inspiring us all. And to our community of knitters and supporters, your contributions make a world of difference. Together, we’re ensuring that every baby in our NICU gets the best possible start in life.