' Suddenly there was sunlight, wind, fresh air' Emotional moment poorly baby goes outside for first time

A family from Lancaster whose baby daughter is finally home after months in hospital is supporting a bid for a new outdoor play area at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.

Robyn Sargent was born at the RLI in April and, due to complex health needs, up until last week had spent her entire life in hospital, receiving treatment in both Lancaster and Manchester.

Robyn is now doing well and has been discharged home, while continuing to be cared for by the community teams of University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT).

The aim of the Sunshine Smiles play area appeal is to create a space where babies like Robyn, as well as older children and their siblings, can feel the sun on their faces, breathe fresh air and have the freedom to play in a safe and fun environment.

Robyn’s mum, dad, siblings and grandparents are all lending their support to the charity’s campaign to raise £35,000 to transform the Children’s Ward’s outdoor space into a welcoming area for children of all ages.

For Robyn’s parents, Harriet and Tim Sargent, the appeal is deeply personal.

Alongside caring for their baby daughter, they are also bringing up Robyn’s older brother Sebastian, two, and sister Adelaide, five, as they navigate a family life turned upside down by months of hospital stays and uncertainty.

Harriet, a teacher at Lancaster Royal Grammar School, said: “Before Robyn arrived, we never imagined we would need a children’s ward for that length of time.

“You prepare for bringing your baby home, introducing them to family, taking walks together and enjoying those first precious months. Instead, Robyn’s journey has been very different and up until now, hospital has been the only home she has known.

“One of the most emotional moments for us was being able to bring Robyn outside. She had spent so long indoors. Suddenly there was sunlight, wind, fresh air and all the sounds and sensations of being outside. Watching her experience that for the first time was incredibly special. It reminded us how much of the world most children naturally get to explore and how important those experiences are.

“When Seb and Adelaide went to see their sister at the Children’s Ward, they needed somewhere to play and be children.

“We could spend time together with Robyn, but then Seb and Adelaide needed to run, play, use their imaginations and have a break from what could be quite a clinical environment. Having somewhere outdoors gave them that chance and helped make the visit feel more normal.”

Tim, who works at Heysham Power Station, and Harriet have always encouraged their children to spend time outdoors and understand the difference it can make to a child’s wellbeing and development.

Harriet said: “The outdoors has always been a huge part of our lives. Through volunteering locally, we have seen how much children gain from being outside, whether that is building confidence, learning new skills, using their imagination or simply having room to breathe.

“I hope everyone will support the appeal for a new outdoor play area because it will make such a difference to families like us.”

Claire Fox, play specialist on the Children’s Ward, said: “Stories like Robyn's remind us just how valuable play areas can be for children. Having somewhere safe and welcoming to go outdoors can make a real difference to families. We are so grateful to Robyn and her family for supporting the Sunshine Smiles Appeal.

“Every day I see how important play is for children who are spending time in hospital. Being admitted to hospital can be frightening and unsettling, particularly for younger children who may not fully understand what is happening around them. Play gives them an opportunity to express themselves, build confidence and enjoy moments of normal childhood, even when they are receiving treatment or recovering from illness.

“The appeal will help babies like Robyn, toddlers, older children and teenagers. It will support brothers and sisters, mums and dads, grandparents and visitors. We would encourage anyone who can support the appeal to get involved. Every donation, fundraiser and act of kindness will help create a space where families can make precious memories and where children can simply enjoy being children, even during the hardest times.”

The Sunshine Smiles Appeal aims to replace the current outdoor surface which has become very worn and create an accessible environment. Research shows that play can help reduce fear and anxiety, support emotional wellbeing and help children cope with unfamiliar environments.

Judith Read, charity manager for Bay Hospitals Charity, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Harriet, Tim, Robyn, Seb, Adelaide and the wider Sargent family for sharing their story and supporting the Sunshine Smiles Appeal. Their experience highlights exactly why this project matters. We now need the support of our local communities and businesses to help turn this vision into reality. Whether through donations, fundraising events, sponsorship or partnerships, every contribution will help us create a brighter, more welcoming environment for children receiving care at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.

"Together, we can make a lasting difference for thousands of families in the years ahead.”

Bay Hospitals Charity is inviting individuals, schools, community groups and local businesses to support the appeal through donations, fundraising events, corporate sponsorship, community fundraising initiatives and charity partnerships.

You can set up an online fundraising page at https://www.bayhospitalscharity.org/set-up-a-fundraiser

For more information about the Bay Hospitals Charity, go online at https://www.bayhospitalscharity.org/