Seasonal joy was had by all at a party for some of Walsall’s youngest and bravest patients and their families.

The annual Christmas party, organised by Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Neonatal Community Outreach Team, was held at St Johns Church, Scarborough Road, on Wednesday, 11 December.

It was an opportunity for all the babies and families who have received neonatal care at Walsall Manor Hospital to come together, share experiences and meet other parents and families.

First-time mum Madison Johnson, 25, and her seven-month-old son Jax have just started coming to the support group. Jax was born eight weeks premature, weighing 3lb 8oz, and spent six and a half weeks in the Neonatal at Walsall Manor Hospital.

Madison said: “It’s nice to get out of the house with your baby and to meet other mums who have been through a similar experience to myself. As well as being able to come and celebrate my first Christmas with Jax and make it special for him.

“The staff were amazing on the ward and could not do enough for Jax or me. I can’t thank them enough.”

Consultant paediatrician Dr Tamsin Lane was part of the team who organised the party.

She said: “Having a baby is hard enough, but having one on the Neonatal unit can be so stressful.

“This is an opportunity for the mums and families to come together and meet new people who have also gone through a similar experience.”

Nicky Heath, Neonatal Outreach Sister, said: “We run this group once a month all year through and the parents love it. Going home can be daunting for mums and families and coming to the group gives them support and they also have us to lean on if needed.

“Today is extra special as for most families this is also their first Christmas together.”

Kiran Chatter, Neonatal Outreach Lead and Discharge Planning Coordinator, thanked Tesco in Walsall for providing a special hamper for the event which families could win in a raffle.

She added: “A huge thank you to our consultants who provided the buffet for the party.”

The Neonatal Community Outreach Team is available to those who have started their journey either on the Neonatal Unit or on the Transitional Care Unit. Parents are given details on how to join the group when they are discharged.

The support group is held on the second Wednesday of every month and is free to attend. The next meeting will be held in January.