Walk is in memory of Grace

The walk, which took place on the 13th June 2010, was held to acknowledge the first anniversary of Grace’s death and to mark the immense impact little Grace made to the lives of her parents, Shauna and Stephen, her grandparents, uncles, aunts and many family friends during her short time with them.

Grace was just two weeks old when she became ill from Group b Strep, a preventable infection which is the most common cause of life threatening illness in newborn babies, and sadly passed away one week later from complications.

Over 100 people took part in the Grace McGroarty Sponsored Walk of the city’s two bridges and raise over 4,000 for the Group b Strep Support (GBSS) charity organisation who provide essential support to those affected by GBS. The charity also strives to raise more awareness about the GBS infection and actively campaigns to make testing for the GBS bacteria standard antenatal practice.

Both Charlene and Cathy were determined to mark Grace’s anniversary in a manner that would raise more awareness about Group b Strep and now plan to make the sponsored walk an annual event.

“We were overwhelmed by the huge amount of support that we received, both in the weeks leading up to the walk and on the day itself. It was a huge comfort to Grace’s parents, Shauna and Stephen, to know that so many people were remembering their daughter’s life in such a positive way.

“We hope that in making the Grace McGroarty Sponsored Walk an annual event, we can continue to raise awareness about Group b Strep so that other women can make informed decisions and choices with regards to their pregnancy.”

For more information about Group b Strep, visit the GBS Support Charity Organisation on www.gbss.org.uk