Who are We?
Roopal Shah
Trustee Chair & Peer Supporter
Hello, my name is Roopal, married to Michael. We are mum and dad to 2 sons: Dhillon who was stillborn in 2004 and Sahil born 2 years later.
I remember feeling terrified before we attended our 1st support meeting, only 3 weeks after Dhillon was born but it was the best thing we did. Michael and I both became heavily involved locally in providing peer support to other grieving mums and dads – and I became active working with local healthcare professionals to improve bereavement care but also make sure bereaved parents were offered an opportunity to talk with someone else who had journeyed a similar path.
Watching families we’ve supported growing together brings me so much joy. I want everyone who has experienced pregnancy or infant loss to have access to this support – and am passionate about breaking down the barriers to accessing that support we know still exist in many cultures.
Rachel Porteous
Secretary & Peer Supporter
Hello, my name is Rachel, mum to 2 sons: Samuel born 2011 and Tobias born 14 months later.
Samuel was stillborn at 37 weeks. What a shock to be told his heartbeat had stopped. Nothing can prepare you for the loss of your baby. Life after is a road no one should have to travel. Having journeyed this road 12 years now I am so grateful for the support I’ve received from people who understand and care.
Through support I’ve realised it’s healthy to talk about Samuel, to celebrate his milestones, to think of him when he comes naturally to mind, to miss him and to continue loving him.
It’s a privilege to be involved with Babyloss Support; to be the one who now understands and cares.
Kimberley Tyler
Social Media & Peer Supporter
Hi I’m Kimberley, I live in the south of the county with my husband and daughters. I also have a furbaby called Elsa, she’s a very lively cockapoo!
Babyloss Support is a charity incredibly close to my heart. The support I have received has made such a difference in my own life, and in my working life as a funeral director I’ve been able to signpost families to the charity who have also benefited from the excellent support that BLS offers.
I passionately care that bereaved people and their families should be involved and supported throughout their grief. With my experience within the funeral industry and social media management experience, I hope to help promote the charity, and reach out to further educate funeral and professionals on best practice surrounding baby loss.
Lee Calvert
Trustee
Hello, I’m Lee, I hope that by sharing my story I can help others find comfort and strength in difficult times.
In 2019, my life took an unexpected turn when my partner and I experienced the heartbreaking loss of our son, Jacob, who was stillborn at 39 weeks. This heart-breaking experience made me recognise the vital importance of support and understanding for people facing such a loss.
After relocating to Leicestershire, my partner became involved with the PALS support groups run by Roopal, connecting with those who shared similar experiences. This connection then led me to Babyloss Support, I discovered comfort, a tendency to get injured and a sense of belonging in an unexpected place: the BLS United football team. While I started my journey with BLS on the football pitch, I soon realised the incredible impact this charity has on families and individuals navigating the difficult path of baby loss. My attendance at various events and activities deepened my commitment to this cause.
My vision is simple: to ensure that the name of Babyloss Support reaches those who need it most. By serving as a trustee, I hope to contribute to the growth of this remarkable charity, extending our reach and making a difference in the lives of countless families.
Lisa-Maria Ellis
Voulnteer
Bindiya Dusara
Peer Supporter
Mark Finney
Trustee
Deepa Masani
Trustee Vice Chair
Moira McLean
Safeguarding Officer & Trustee