Providing support to others through her own loss

A young Muslim lady from Batley is helping to support other followers of the faith after the loss of a baby.

Raheemah Makda lost her son Ayaan, when she was 22 weeks pregnant, and found the support and resources she received through Children of Jannah of huge comfort.

Children of Jannah is the first charity established especially for Muslim parents who have experienced the death of a child, and Raheemah is now doing what she can to raise awareness of the charity and bring their resources to The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust.

After feeling unwell Raheemah went to Pinderfields Hospital where a scan revealed her baby had no heartbeat. Her labour was induced and she gave birth to Ayaan – which means ‘Gift of God.’ After spending the night with her son he was then buried in Angel Corner at Dewsbury Cemetery.

“It was all so quick and unexpected,” said Raheemah. “My 20 week scan showed that everything was perfect. So to be told two weeks later his heart had stopped beating was such a shock.

“A friend who also lost her baby a few months after me, made me aware of the Children of Jannah and I’m so glad she did. Their Bereavement Support Pack contains a journal, which I found so therapeutic to write in. There’s also a booklet called ‘Where is my child’ which really helped me to try and understand things better.”

Raheemah has raised money through her social media platforms where she shared her story. This enabled her to buy 50 Bereavement Support Packs for The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust to give to other Muslim women who sadly lose a child.

“I really want to help and support others,” she continued. “I feel it is a taboo subject within our society. It is important parents are allowed to grieve freely without feeling it's wrong or unacceptable.

“I would say to people who find themselves in this position: don’t despair, have hope and never give up.

“I went on to have a rainbow baby who was micro-preemie, it certainly was a scary journey, but he is doing well. There is a massive support network out there don't be afraid to seek help.”

Helen Holland, Bereavement Support Midwife at The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “We’re extremely grateful for Raheemah’s donation. These resources are of great support to women in the Muslim community.”

Raheemah has also created an Instagram page to provide support to others called @mystillborn_micropreemie.