An Abbots Langley resident who lost his new-born daughter in 2018 has featured on BBC News due to his commendable efforts in helping other dads deal with grief.
Ross Coniam lost his daughter, Norah, nine hours and 56 minutes after she was born.
Ross has since been raising money for and awareness for baby loss and mental health charities through his #Nine4Norah campaign, so far securing more than £65,000.
He has also set up his Dads and Lads Network, a non-professional group to offer bereaved dads suffering from mental health issues a safe space to talk.
Ross helps other people in a similar position to himself by organising walks and events for the bereaved dads to take on together. Most recently, from July 24 to August 1, Ross and several other dads completed an eight-day walk of the Thames valley, covering 185 miles.
Speaking to BBC News last month, Ross said: “Dads can come and chat to me about my experience, how I’m dealing with it and will continue to deal with it, and what their issues are if they want to talk about it.
Steve Hughes, a young dad who lost his son in 2019, also spoke on BBC News, opened up about the night his son passed away.
He said: “I remember going outside the hospital and thinking, ‘who can I phone to speak to?’ I eventually got in contact with Ross, who has supported me for almost two years now.”
Following his TV appearance, Ross said: “I would like to thank everyone for their kind words since the clip was aired on BBC News. Since then, I have been contacted by over 40 dads, looking for support with over 20 joining our group.
“It is so touching to know our group is providing help to guys that may have struggled to find it in the past.”
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