Lottery winner knits tiny togs for premature babies

That’s why the big-hearted mum from Mirfield in Yorkshire decided to help out by creating a range of tiny baby outfits made up of cardigans, bonnets, bootees and mittens. Now, after donating the outfits to the Neonatal Unit at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, Susan is helping give dozens of premature babies a warm welcome to the world.

Susan, who won £1.2MMillion on The National Lottery in 2008, said, “Alder Hey does incredible work. Ever since winning on The National Lottery I have always tried to dedicate as much time as possible to supporting charities.

“There are obviously so many good causes to help and I try to do as much as I possibly can. Having had 2 premature babies myself, the neonatal baby unit is something which is very close to my heart.”

She added, “I love knitting and I know how difficult it can be during the first few weeks and months of a premature baby’s life to find suitable clothes and lovely outfits. I have tried to be as creative as possible and it has been wonderful to visit Alder Hey and hand over the outfits.”

Jessica Short and her 1-year old son Frankie, accepted Susan’s miniature outfits on behalf of Alder Hey Children’s Charity. Frankie required surgery at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital just hours after he was delivered because he was born with his bowels on the outside of his stomach. He was transferred there from a hospital in Wirral, which meant Jessica had to wait a day before getting to know her new son.

Since Jessica and Frankie were reunited at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital he has exceeded expectations. Frankie and Jess have gone on to support the charity’s Surgical Neonatal Appeal and have taken part in recent fundraisers, including modelling the charity’s Matalan PJs and starring in a Johnson’s Baby fundraising campaign.

Jessica said, “I couldn't be more proud of my son and I couldn’t be more grateful for every single staff member at Alder Hey. It’s amazing to see how far Frankie has come and it’s always lovely to come back to see everyone.

“It’s always lovely to meet other people who support the Alder Hey Surgical Neonatal Unit Appeal and Susan’s gorgeous knitted creations will certainly be cherished by parents here at the hospital and when they get home with their tiny newborns.”

21st April 2023