A MOTHER has made it her mission to raise funds for a charity which supported her and her partner after the death of their baby, who she gave birth to without knowing she was pregnant.

Natasha Limbert, of Tadcaster Road in York, was thought to be between 35 and 40 weeks pregnant when she gave birth to Alexis, which she said was a "complete surprise".

Both Natasha and Alexis were rushed to York Hospital and two days later they were discharged. But a fortnight later, Alexis died after breathing difficulties.

Now Natasha, 24, and her partner Josh Simpson, 26, are keen to raise funds for the charity York Stillbirth and neonatal death charity (SANDS), which provided vital support to the couple after Alexis' tragic death.

Natasha, who has a two-year-old daughter called Savannah, said: "The charity was extremely helpful. Even if we just needed a general chat or needed some advice, they were there for us. They know how you're feeling.

"The only support we got was from the charity."

She added: "It was the worst time. I've never felt anything like that ever."

Before Alexis was born, Natasha had been to the doctors twice when she felt unwell. The first time she was told she had a serious stomach bug and a few months later she was told she had irritable bowel syndrome.

Natasha says she and Josh were "shocked" and "gobsmacked" when Alexis was born in December, weighing 6lb 6oz. Natasha delivered Alexis on her own at her home while Josh was at work and members of her family were asleep in the house.

The couple are organising a family fun day in aid of York SANDS and in memory of Alexis. It will be held at York Acorn Rugby Club, in Thanet Road, on September 4 starting at noon.

It will feature various activities and attractions, including numerous stalls, rodeo bull, beat the keeper, bouncy castle, raffle, tombola and much more.

They are hoping to raise funds to help York SANDS buy a cold cot, which will cost about £3,000.

The couple are also planning to hold a charity boxing night on October 1 at Henry Wharton's gym in Acomb.

SANDS supports anyone affected by the death of a baby and works in partnership with health professionals to try to ensure that bereaved parents and families receive the best possible care. It also funds research that could help to reduce the numbers of babies dying and families devastated by this tragedy.

A fundraising page has been set up to raise money in memory of Alexis for York SANDS. To make a donation, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alexisnikita