I feel very honoured to be nominated for a volunteer award by Sands and thank you most sincerely. My grandson Theo was stillborn four years ago on 1/9/14. We were determined that Theo would not be forgotten so we started running and fundraising for Sands, carrying his name and footprints. This has developed over the years so today I carry over 50 Angels around the country running cycling and swimming with events from 200 metres to 250 miles usually in fancy dress, raising money for Sands and raising awareness. I have also written a book called “Angel Poles” which features many Angel parents’ stories...and this year we arranged a virtual run. Through all these events, I endeavour to ensure that Theo and his Angel friends are never forgotten and hopefully the awareness and money raised (approx. £20,000) will mean less Angels join Theo in the future.

Ashleigh Corker, North East Network Coordinator, said: “David runs marathons, half marathons, ultra runs and other events for Sands and MS Society. He takes ‘Scooby’s Angels’ to each event and has a large following of bereaved families who cheer him on in person or via social media. Scooby also likes to break World records in memory of his grandson Theo and has even produced a limited edition medal for people doing a virtual 4k event.”

David has been nominated as part of 40 volunteers for #Sands40. Join them at Sands 40th Anniversary Conference on 17th November 2018 in Glasgow. 

Sands is marking its 40th anniversary this year and we would like to say thank you for the incredible support and contribution that our dedicated volunteers make across the UK to support bereaved parents and anyone affected by the death of a baby. 

We will be hosting an awards ceremony during the Sands 40th Anniversary Conference to celebrate the wide range of volunteering involvement in Sands and acknowledge 40 volunteers for their dedication and commitment.