SMALL gestures of kindness from complete strangers can help families to find the strength to survive the darkest of days.

For Becky Wilkinson and Lee Sparks, who live in Burtonwood, this certainly could not be further from the truth.

The couple’s oldest daughter Ava was born three months premature in June 2012 and faced many hurdles as a result – spending most of her life in hospital due to problems with her lungs.

Becky said: “Ava faced her daily challenges with determination, stubbornness and a smile on her face.

“Everyone who knew Ava would comment on what a sociable and happy baby she was despite all the unpleasant experiences she had to endure.”

During her time in hospital Ava received a blanket with Jemima Puddle Duck on which was made by volunteers at Project Linus, who create patchwork quilts, knitted and crocheted blankets for ill babies, children and teenagers.

She added: “When living in hospital it is difficult to create a homely and normal environment and this blanket provided some home comfort. 

“It may be hard to believe that a blanket can make a difference to a seriously sick child and their family but it does. 

“It was such a lovely gift and brightened that day when there was often very little to be bright about – apart from Ava of course.”

But Ava’s health took a turn for the worse and she lost her battle in July 2013, aged 13 months.

“We are incredibly proud that Ava was able to donate her heart valves and have since learnt that these have been successfully transplanted into two baby girls aged five and six months old,” said Becky.

Since Ava’s death, the couple have welcomed her sister into the world, Poppy, who is now six months old.

More than one year on, the Project Linus blanket continues to provide a sense of comfort for the couple and a keepsake of their time with their daughter.

She added: “After moving to Burtonwood shortly before Poppy’s birth I heard about the sewing group run by Anne Carr and decided to pop along. 

“I’m not only learning new skills but have made new friends and it has definitely helped both myself and Lee feel settled into our new community.  

“I am hoping to one day to make a blanket out of Ava and Poppy’s clothes.”