St George’s Neonatal Unit have been shortlisted for a Butterfly Award after being nominated by a couple from Teddington.

The ceremony is an annual event that honours people who have experienced the baby loss and also celebrates the efforts made by hospital teams and staff members who support them.

Eloise and David Mathis voted for the hospital unit after they had lost their son Sonny in 2018.

When asked why they decided to nominate St George’s Neonatal Unit the couple said: “Our little boy was transferred to St George's after suffering an antenatal cord event which left him with brain damage.

“The care Sonny received and the support they gave our family was amazing.

“They were all so kind and caring and helped us learn to care for our boy in the time he was with us.

“This team do amazing work and deserve to know how great they are and what a difference they made to us in such heart-breaking and traumatic circumstances."

The Butterfly Awards have been running for the past seven years and is a ceremony that brings awareness to child deaths.

it was founded by Mel Scott who lost her son during labour in 2009.

She wanted to create a space for parents and professionals to find information and support following the death of a baby.

Dr Nigel Kennea – a Consultant Neonatologist at St George’s Hospital and also helped to care for Sonny, said: “I’m delighted that the team has been recognised for the care it provided at such a difficult time.

“It’s really amazing work from everyone in our multi-disciplinary team, including the doctors, nurses, counsellors and our charity, First Touch, who have all been really touched by this nomination.”

The winner will be announced at a ceremony that will be held in Warwickshire on October 19, after going through a public vote and judging panel.

The public votes closes at 11pm on October 12.