Moffat’s Hazel Porteous celebrated her 50th birthday in a remarkable way by donating £1,220 to the neonatal unit that saved her life. Born six weeks premature and weighing as much as a bag of sugar in 1974 at Dumfries’ former Nithbank Hospital, Hazel wanted to show her gratitude for the care she received. Instead of traditional presents, she requested donations for the neonatal unit at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary from friends and family at her birthday party in Moffat Town Hall. Hazel was thrilled to hand over the cheque to the unit staff, including neonatal unit senior charge nurse Becky McKnight and health care support worker Emma Fyles.
Reflecting on her own premature birth, Hazel acknowledged the advancements in care for premature babies over the years. She expressed her desire to give back to the neonatal unit that once cared for her, stating, “I realised I had never done anything for the neonatal unit, and I thought I should to help their continued work.” The generous donations from her birthday guests were met with gratitude from the unit staff, with nurse Becky McKnight expressing their appreciation for the thoughtful gift.
The money raised will be held in the Dumfries and Galloway Health Board Endowment Fund, allocated to support the neonatal unit as needed. The unit, classified as a level two facility, provides high-dependency care for premature babies, while those requiring more intensive care are transferred to level three neonatal intensive care units in Edinburgh or Glasgow. Hazel’s initiative not only commemorated her milestone birthday but also demonstrated her heartfelt appreciation for the life-saving care she received as a newborn.
Hazel’s act of kindness serves as a touching reminder of the impact individuals can make by giving back to institutions that make a difference in people’s lives. Her initiative reinforces the importance of gratitude and generosity, inspiring others to support causes that hold personal significance. Through her donation, Hazel has not only honoured her own journey but also contributed to the ongoing care and support of premature babies in her community.