Lisa Shaw decided to help others after the death of her 31-year-old son Joe on February 4.
After choosing East London Cemetery in Plaistow as Joe’s final resting place, Lisa was moved by the graves of babies that were marked only with toys or simple markers.
The thought that her son could have been left without a headstone spurred her into action.
She shared her wish to provide headstones for the babies’ graves with her family, friends, and neighbours.
Within two days, Lisa, along with her supporters, raised £5,000, enough to pay for 12 headstones.
She is expecting to raise more money to ensure that every baby in that section has a headstone.
Lisa has collaborated with the cemetery to pay for headstones for families who have not yet ordered one.
She has had early positive conversations with some of the families.
“This is from a mum to a mum or dad who has lost their baby,” Lisa said.
“It’s about showing that their child is remembered, loved, and honoured.”
As part of her efforts to continue raising money and awareness, she did a sponsored walk of London’s 12 Bridges, beginning at Tower Bridge and ending at Fulham Bridge on August 31.
She has since continued to raise awareness, with many donating to the fundraiser.
The fundraising page can be found at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/joes-angels.
People can contact the East London Cemetery for more information by calling 020 7476 5109 or emailing eastlondon.crematorium@thecmg.co.uk.
