Southport campaigner and disability advocate Teresa Smith BEM is preparing to take to the skies on Saturday 3rd October 2026 to raise £5,000 for neonatal vein viewers for Liverpool Women’s Hospital.
Teresa, who lives in Southport, is a thalidomide survivor, retired social worker and lifelong campaigner for disabled people.
She has severe limb disabilities and uses a wheelchair, but she has never allowed her disability to prevent her from taking on new challenges or helping other people.
Teresa Smith BEM said:
“I was born in Liverpool and was baptised at Alder Hey after my family was told that I might have only two minutes to live.
“Against the odds, I survived and have been fortunate to lead a full and meaningful life.
““This fundraiser is particularly close to my heart because it is inspired by two babies who are close relatives of mine. One was born at only 28 weeks. Their experiences helped me understand even more deeply the challenges faced by premature babies, their families and the medical teams caring for them.
“On 3rd October, I will take part in a special flight with Ravenair to raise money for neonatal vein viewers for the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Liverpool Women’s Hospital.
“These important devices help medical staff see the tiny veins of premature and newborn babies more clearly when providing essential treatment. I hope the people of Southport and across Merseyside will support me.”
The appeal is being organised through the Teresa Smith Foundation, registered charity number 1178112.
Teresa was awarded the British Empire Medal for her charitable and community work. She hopes her latest challenge will encourage people to believe that disability does not have to prevent someone from making a difference.
Teresa said:
“I may be taking to the sky, but the real heroes are the premature babies, their families and the dedicated neonatal staff who care for them every day.
“Every donation will help us move closer to our £5,000 goal. If people are unable to donate, sharing the appeal would also be enormously helpful.”
You can donate via the direct PayPal donation page here: https://www.paypal.com/donate?campaign_id=N6S586WGLP95N
Do you have a story for Stand Up For Southport? Do you need advertising, PR or media support? Please message Andrew Brown or email: [email protected]
