A Father’s Promise: Football Community Unites for Neonatal Cause

Greenock Morton FC manager Dougie Imrie and his partner Lauren McCreaddie have channeled personal tragedy into transformative action, raising £18,000 for the neonatal unit at University Hospital Wishaw. The funds honor their daughter Remi Imrie, who passed away in August 2023 after a courageous 20-day battle following her premature birth at just 14 weeks gestation.

The Journey of Remi Imrie

• Born weighing 1lb 4oz on July 30, 2023
• Received round-the-clock care from NHS Lanarkshire’s neonatal specialists
• Inspired nationwide support from Scottish football communities

"Those precious days with Remi taught us about resilience," Imrie stated during the check presentation. "As athletes, we understand fighting spirit – our girl embodied that every second."

From Pitch to Purpose: Football’s Role in Charity

The former Hamilton Academical and St Mirren midfielder leveraged his sports network to organize:

• Memorial match collections
• Silent auctions featuring signed Premiership memorabilia
• Social media campaigns reaching 250k+ engagements

How Funds Will Be Used

Senior Midwife Kate Boyle emphasized: "This extraordinary gift allows us to implement Project Butterfly – a new sibling support program launching in 2024."

Beyond the Touchline: A Legacy of Love

The couple’s efforts align with Baby Loss Awareness Week (October 9-15), illuminating:

• Scotland’s 8.9/1000 neonatal mortality rate (NHS 2022)
• 1 in 7 pregnancies affected by complications
• Critical need for neonatal research funding

Lauren shared: "Remi’s story isn’t about loss – it’s about love’s power to create change. Every monitor bought means another parent might hear their child’s first cry."

Greenock Morton FC has announced an annual Remi Imrie Memorial Cup starting in 2024, solidifying this partnership between Scottish football and neonatal healthcare.