In June 2024, Chloe Williams-Wynne and Hugo Le Breton, along with a group of 50 friends, embarked on a remarkable journey—cycling the gruelling Chalkway trail from Tisbury to Lyme Regis. Over two days, they covered 120 kilometres of challenging off-road terrain, climbing 2,400 metres and navigating steep descents, including the infamous Hell’s Lane.

This extraordinary endeavour was more than just a physical challenge; it was a heartfelt tribute to Chloe and Hugo’s daughter, Minnie.

Minnie was born in March 2022 and spent 19 days in the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) at St Mary’s Hospital and Queen Charlotte’s Hospital. Despite the exceptional care she received, her health challenges proved insurmountable, and she tragically passed away. Her short life, filled with love and strength, inspired Chloe, her husband Hugo, and their community to honour her memory by supporting Cosmic, the charity that had been there for them during their darkest days.

Cosmic provides critical support to babies and children in intensive care at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington and Queen Charlotte’s Hospital, Hammersmith, funding life-saving equipment, training medical staff, and assisting families through incredibly difficult times. Their goal was to raise enough money to fund a ventilator for the neonatal unit—a vital piece of equipment for vulnerable babies.

The ride was tough, but the sense of purpose, camaraderie, and love for Minnie spurred Chloe and Hugo, and their team forward. Their journey culminated in a joyful celebration in Lyme Regis, where they reflected on their incredible achievement. Chloe shared:

“What an utterly awesome 36 hours of friendship, camaraderie, mental guts, and family wonder. We couldn’t have done it without our amazing cyclists and the love and support of our wider network. This was all for Minnie, our brave little fighter. She was with us every step and pedal of the way.” 

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Chloe, Hugo, and the gang, Cosmic was able to purchase a state-of-the-art Dräger Babylog ventilator, a crucial piece of equipment for supporting premature and critically ill babies in the NICU.

Why is the Dräger Babylog Ventilator So Vital?

Designed specifically for extremely premature infants, the Dräger Babylog offers advanced protective ventilation strategies in line with NICE guidelines. Its intuitive touchscreen display allows medical staff to fine-tune settings, optimising respiratory care for each baby.

Consultant Neonatologist and Site Lead Jenny Ziprin expressed her gratitude:

“I absolutely love the Dräger Babylog! In a financially cash-strapped NHS, it is very challenging to procure new, expensive equipment. I am extremely grateful for the generosity of others in enabling us to have these ventilators for our babies. We prioritise them for our most vulnerable, extremely preterm infants, as they really are the optimal ventilators for these little ones.”

Aniko Deierl, Consultant Neonatologist and Head of Specialty, highlighted the ventilator’s impact: 3

“The Dräger Babylog is the best state-of-the-art ventilator on the market for extremely premature infants. Approximately 100 babies per year benefit from using them, and without this donation and the charity’s support, it would not have been possible. We are extremely grateful.”

Chloe and Hugo’s story is a powerful reminder of the incredible impact that two people—and a united community—can have. Their determination to turn loss into a lasting legacy is truly inspiring.

To read more about Chloe and Hugo’s journey, please visit:
https://www.cyclingthechalkwayforminnie.com/