Couple’s emotional videos are matter of life and death
A couple who made emotional videos marking the beginning and end of their loved ones’ lives are offering to do the same for others.
When Victoria and Adam Aldridge’s daughter Sophia was born at just 26 weeks, weighing 2lb 5oz, the proud dad snapped a picture so his wife could see her daughter for the first time from her hospital bed.
That precious photo was the start of an album illustrating Sophia’s battle, which Adam eventually edited into a film.
The idea for the mini movie came from a similar collage Adam put together to play at his father Tony’s funeral.
Victoria, 34, who lives in Maidstone, said: “We lost Adam’s dad in April and no one wanted to do a speech at his funeral. So we all made video clips talking about him, even the grandchildren. We managed to show the fun side of him without the emotion that happens on the day of a funeral.”
Victoria had planned to give birth to Sophia at Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Pembury, but was rushed to the Medway Maritime Hospital as Pembury only takes babies born from 28 weeks.
She said: “We knew at 26 weeks we couldn’t continue the pregnancy. Every day was filled with anxiety.
“Our goal was always 28 weeks. If we could reach 28 weeks the baby would have an 80% survival rate. But the decision was taken out of our hands and we had to follow the advice of our consultant.”
Sophia was born on Wednesday, June 17. She spent 14 weeks in hospital and fought off a lifethreatening infection before being allowed home where, her mum says, she is doing well.
The couple have another daughter, Mia, seven.
Victoria said: “Adam took the first picture for me but we also wanted to have a record of her journey. Nobody knew what the outcome was going to be so we took photos constantly. I still cry when I watch the video now.”
After positive comments from friends and family, Victoria and Adam set up a company making similar videos and have already been approached by the mum of another premature baby as well as a family who wants a film of their children growing up.