A children’s charity created in memory of a Ramsgate toddler has received a £1,000 funding boost as part of Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards to support its vital work.
The Baby Ronnie Foundation is a small non-profit organisation established in memory of Ronnie Joe, who lost his life to an undetected heart disease called restrictive cardiomyopathy in August 2022.
The foundation sends teddy bears to children experiencing similar health challenges, offers support to their loved ones, raises awareness about congenital heart diseases and delivers toys to children in hospitals during Christmas time.
Ronnie, who loved Paw Patrol, Shark Dog and singing Frozen songs, was just two-years-old when he passed away.
The Baby Ronnie Foundation was founded by family friend Lucinda Rose, who was Ronnie’s godmother, along with Ronnie’s nan Lisa Russell.
Lucinda said: “The Baby Ronnie Foundation was established in memory of Ronnie, our brave champ who spent his final weeks at the Royal Brompton Hospital battling congenital heart defects after being unexpectedly diagnosed with a rare condition called restrictive cardiomyopathy.
“In honour of his legacy, the foundation has made a significant impact by providing comfort and support to children and families facing similar challenges. To date, the foundation has sent around 85 teddy bears to babies and children with congenital heart defects, offering them a source of comfort during difficult times.
“In addition to the teddy bears, the foundation has donated to various GoFundMe pages, supporting children and families going through similar hardships. The foundation also organises fundays to raise both funds and awareness for congenital heart defects, with a special Christmas event coming up this year.
“Each Christmas, the foundation visits the Royal Brompton Hospital, bringing toys to the children to brighten their spirits during the festive season.
“The foundation’s efforts were recently recognised when it won a Movement for Good Award, receiving a £1,000 donation. This generous contribution will enable the foundation to purchase more teddy bears and continue to assist more families in need.
“The work of the Baby Ronnie Foundation not only honours Ronnie’s memory but also provides a vital source of hope and comfort to those in need, helping other “poorly hearts” in their time of need. Ronnie’s legacy lives on through the love and support given to others in his name.”
Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away over £1million to charities across the year and invites members of the public to nominate causes close to their hearts. Some 150 awards of £1,000 have been donated to charities across the UK and Ireland. Further winners will be revealed later in the year and Kent residents are encouraged to keep nominating by visiting https://movementforgood.com/.
Find The Baby Ronnie Foundation at: https://www.facebook.com/Thebabyronniefoundation
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