A MUM has raised £4,000 to thank a Bradford hospital for saving her baby son’s life.

Danielle Stoakes, 27, gave birth three months early to Reggie who weighed just 2lbs 7oz and the neo-natal unit at Bradford Royal Infirmary was the only specialist unit in the whole of Yorkshire and Humber who could give him the expert care he needed to survive.

The newborn was transferred by ambulance from Pilgrim Hospital in Boston until he was stable enough to return closer to home, to Lincoln County Hospital.

Two years on Reggie, who started nursery in February, is doing well says his mum – even though he still has health problems.

Ms Stoakes, who lives near Skegness, organised a 1920s-themed ball in her home town and raised more than £4,800, with a friend topping up the amount to £5,000 which was her target.

Out of that total, £4,000 will be donated to Bradford Hospitals’ Charity and £1,000 will go to United Lincolnshire Hospitals’ charitable fund.

Ms Stoakes said: “It’s amazing to think that the money will go to such a good cause and will help families in the future. It’s brilliant to be able to support the hospital that did so much to help Reggie.”

About 200 tickets were sold for the event, with nurses from BRI’s neonatal unit travelling to Grimsby for the ball.

“It meant the absolute world to have them there on the night. It was good to give something back and fantastic to see them,” said Ms Stoakes.

Plans are now in line to host the night again next year, raising more funds for the neonatal unit, but this time with a masquerade theme.

Reggie has a hole in his heart and will need surgery. He also has chronic lung disease and an immunity deficiency.

His mum said: “He’s amazing, and a gorgeous little boy.”

The pair re-visited the neo-natal unit in Bradford this week.

Hayley Collis, head of fundraising at Bradford Hospitals’ Charity, who met them, said: “I feel I know Danielle so well already as we worked closely together to make her ambitious dream of raising £5,000 become a reality.

“It is only when people like Danielle come forward to fundraise that we can then help make a difference to future families in the same predicament.”

To find out more about Bradford Hospital Charity’s work, email charity@bthft.nhs.uk or call 01274 274809.

MORE TOP STORIES