Support for Samantha and Dene

Sammy had beautiful baby Sophie Jane Franklin on Friday 18th September at 4.16am after a long and intense labour. Sammy worked so hard. Sam and Dene's families, Simon and I are so so privileged to have met Sophie, and Sam and Dene were incredible for allowing us all to come and see her. Sophie had the loveliest, perfect little face with a gorgeous shock of hair.

Heartbreakingly, Sophie passed away just under two hours later, surrounded with so much love. Sam and Dene have really appreciated the support that has been given to them through texts and calls, and they feel so loved. The strength that Sammy and Dene have shown as parents is truly amazing. They have had such a hard road and have faced everything that has been thrown at them with compassion and courage.

Thank you all for your contributions to Samantha and Dene. These have been so appreciated and have taken some pressure off them at what is an absolutely heartbreaking time.

Arohanui x