A couple who lost their child to a stillbirth has opened up on the worst time of their lives as they prepare to embark on a fundraising challenge for charities that helped them grieve in the aftermath of their child's death two months ago.

Natalie Lennox and Sam Booth, who live in Sowerby, near Thirsk, tragically lost their daughter Isadorah to a stillbirth in April this year after Natalie miscarried halfway through her pregnancy after almost three days of labour. 

During their time of grieving, the couple were able to spend time in James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough with Isadorah, who was put in a 'cold cot', a refrigerated crib, to preserve her body and make sure that Natalie and Sam could grieve her loss in a respectful and dignified way.

Two months on from Isadorah's stillbirth, Natalie has reflected on the time as the "worst time of our lives" and set out the raw emotion that the couple has experienced in that time.

Natalie Lennox and Sam Booth with Isadorah in the ‘Snowdrop’ suite / bereavement room at James Cook Natalie Lennox and Sam Booth with Isadorah in the ‘Snowdrop’ suite / bereavement room at James Cook (Image: FAMILY)

She said: "This has changed our lives forever - it was the worst time of our lives. Because it was a planned pregnancy, this has been taken away from us. It was supposed to be a happy time but has been a testing and emotional time.

"With it being our first born, it's that bit more difficult - I've still got the maternal instincts, and what I can be glad about is that we got to spend time with Isadorah, and time to grieve."

During the couple's time in James Cook Hospital, they were able to learn that the 'cold cot' was donated by another family who had experienced stillbirth, with Natalie and Sam wanting to fundraise to be able to donate another cold cot to the hospital. 

As a result, the Thirsk couple are looking to raise funds by doing a walking marathon in July along the Leeds/Liverpool Canal - with the money going to afford a cold cot for James Cook Hospital. 

Isadorah in her cold cot that had been donated by a family who also lost there family in the ‘Snowdrop’ suite at James CookIsadorah in her cold cot that had been donated by a family who also lost there family in the ‘Snowdrop’ suite at James Cook (Image: FAMILY)

The funds will be split across Abigail’s Footsteps; a charity that spreads awareness of cold cots, alongside South Tee’s Hospital Charity, 4Louis, Petal’s, Leo’s Antenatal, and Aching Arms; all of which support parents who have experienced stillbirths in various ways. 

Natalie added: "We want to raise money in Isadorah's name, and that can be her legacy. 

"The NHS were amazing, and we were looked after very well at James Cook Hospital.

"The charities have been amazing as well - from 4Louis, who provided memory boxes, which have some of Isadorah's things in, to Abigail's Footsteps, who help with cold cots."

Natalie and SamNatalie and Sam (Image: FAMILY)

As well as doing the fundraiser, the couple are keen to raise awareness and break the taboo subject over stillbirths - with Natalie hearing from three or four other mothers who have experienced the same since Isadorah's tragic death. 

"I wouldn't wish this on anyone - but it's nice to know there is support and there are people out there that want to have honest and emotional conversations about stillbirths," added Natalie. 

Alongside the emotional support, Natalie says that the fundraiser has meant that she can focus on her mental and physical wellbeing.

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Natalie said: "The pain and suffering over the last few months has been big - but the walking marathon will be good for mental and physical health. 

"I've already gone out on several walks, and you feel so much better for getting out."

So far, the fundraising page set up by the couple has raised £2400; close to their £2800 target - with numerous family and friends set to join them on their marathon walk in July.

The couple has thanked everyone for their donations so far, and those that will be donating soon - with the couple praising the "overwhelming generosity" they have seen so far.

People can donate to the fundraiser here.