Midlands Mother Heartbroken After Premature Baby's Death from Rare Condition
A Midlands mother has been left devastated following the tragic death of her 10-week-old baby daughter from a rare medical condition. Lorena Amor Cornes passed away on May 14, 2024, after being rushed to Royal Stoke University Hospital when she stopped breathing.
Parents Rachael Jones and Lewis Cornes, from Talke in Staffordshire, welcomed Lorena on March 5, 2024. She was born seven weeks premature and spent three weeks in the neonatal ward before being allowed home. Rachael recalled, "We thought we were going to lose her in there. Thankfully, we were lucky enough to get her home."
Despite ongoing health issues, including a milk allergy, the family believed Lorena was improving. "She seemed like she was okay. We got used to having her back. She was a gorgeous little girl," Rachael said. However, after seven weeks at home, Lorena stopped breathing and could not be saved by medics.
Understanding Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
The cause of death was attributed to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), a rare and unexplained condition affecting apparently healthy babies up to 12 months old. According to the NHS, SIDS is more common in the first six months and can occur during any sleep period.
Risk factors include:
- Exposure to cigarette smoke
- Sleeping with a baby on a sofa or chair
- Premature birth (before 37 weeks)
- Low birth weight (less than 2.5kg or 5.5lb)
- Twins or multiples
The NHS notes that while SIDS is rare, it remains a significant concern for parents of vulnerable infants.
Family's Grief and Healing Journey
Rachael described the loss as "completely devastating" and a "horrendous shock" that turned her world upside down. She added, "Even now, we’re still left with all these questions and hurt. The whole thing was a blur." Explaining the tragedy to her young siblings was particularly challenging.
To cope, the family keeps Lorena's memory alive through photos, handprints displayed in their living room, and annual traditions like releasing a balloon with a letter at Christmas. "We do our best to keep her memory alive for everyone by doing all these little things," Rachael shared.
Fundraising for a Memorial Bench
In honor of Lorena, the family has launched a fundraising appeal to install a memorial bench near her grave at St Luke’s in Mow Cop. The bench is estimated to cost around £2,000, covering the plot, installation, and related expenses.
A fundraiser is scheduled for February 20, coinciding with what would have been Lorena's second birthday. Rachael's brother is hosting the event at The Roaring Meg in Biddulph, with strong community support and donations from local businesses.
Rachael expressed gratitude for the outpouring of kindness, stating, "I’ve been really surprised by how many nice messages we’ve had." Any excess funds from the campaign will be donated to the neonatal ward at Royal Stoke University Hospital, which the family praised for their exceptional care.
While not planning to establish a formal charity, Rachael hopes to continue raising money annually in Lorena's memory, emphasizing the importance of supporting neonatal services and honoring her daughter's legacy.
