Georgia Soule, a 26-year-old mother from Tewkesbury, is on a heartfelt mission to keep the memory of her daughter Millie alive after the baby tragically passed away just 24 days after birth due to an extremely rare lung disorder called surfactant protein deficiency.
Little Millie was born on December 8, 2024, and was immediately showered with love from her family, especially her older brother Logan, who was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his new sister. However, shortly after birth, Georgia noticed troubling signs as Millie’s skin turned purple, indicating struggling oxygen levels. Despite urgent and intensive medical interventions, Millie was unable to breathe independently and sadly passed away on New Year’s Day.
Determined to make something positive from an unbearably dark situation, Georgia has launched a series of fundraising efforts in Millie’s honor. She is organizing a charity walk to benefit Acorns Children’s Hospice, which offers vital support to families facing life-limiting conditions. Georgia explains, “Surfactant protein deficiency is so rare that few are aware of it or the symptoms. Raising awareness is crucial so that others may get early help.”
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To cope with her grief, Georgia channeled her energy into planning the walk and creating personalized T-shirts with the help of a close friend. She also designed Millie’s headstone, finding comfort in bringing her vision to life with the help of a specialist company. Additionally, she’s planning more fundraisers to support charities like Cots for Tots, who provided accommodation during Millie’s time in the neonatal unit.
Georgia credits her son Logan as her source of strength and light throughout this painful journey. “I don’t believe I have ‘coped,’ but Logan’s love keeps me going. He is my reason to face each new day,” she shares. The experience has given her a renewed appreciation for life, even amidst sorrow.
Sharing her story on social media platforms such as TikTok has connected Georgia with others who have endured similar losses. This community has helped her feel less isolated and provided lifelong friendships rooted in empathy and understanding.
Support also comes from professionals like her bereavement midwife and representatives from Acorns Hospice, although Georgia admits attending support groups remains a challenge due to anxiety. She describes her grief as “riding the waves,” with emotions varying daily as she works toward healing.
Georgia emphasizes the importance of ongoing remembrance and thanks those who continue to check in on the family. She highlights the extraordinary work of Acorns Hospice, which not only offers compassionate care during life’s darkest moments but also lifelong support to bereaved families.
The upcoming charity walk on June 14 will follow the route between Tewkesbury and Norton on the A38, with a collective goal of walking one million steps to symbolize Millie’s “one in a million” condition.
Though the pain remains raw, Georgia vows to honor Millie’s legacy, dedicating herself to being the best mother possible to both of her children. “Millie will never be forgotten. She truly was one in a million.”