THE grieving parents of a 15- month-old baby who died in April are to put on a fundraising event in his memory.

Little Sam Barrow had been diagnosed with Down's Syndrome before he was born, and doctors warned his parents Ruth and Matthew he may not survive the pregnancy.

The youngster, who was born by Caesarean section at Singleton, was in and out of hospital throughout his young life because of continual chest infections.

He died peacefully on April 27 at the University of Wales Hospital, Cardiff, following the diagnosis of endocarditis — an inflammation of the inner layer of the heart. He would have been two this week.

The fundraiser for the Stepping Stones Children's Centre will be held at Sketty Park Social Club on February 5, and will feature a variety performance arranged by Swansea's Amanda Roberts.

Mrs Barrow, of Heol-y- Gors in Townhill, said: "We wanted to do something for our son.

"We want people to know we're so grateful and we're giving something back to Stepping Stones because they helped us in our time of need. We'd like to thank the people who are helping us put this event on in his memory."

She paid tribute to her son.

"Sam did so much in 15 months, he was so beautiful — it was unbelievable.

"We were so lucky to have him, he showed so much courage. He was strong and had an infectious smile.

"Ninety nine per cent of Down's babies go on to live full and happy lives these days, but people are frightened when they find out they're expecting a Down's baby.

"But we had such a positive experience with Sam, people should know about it." Mrs Barrow's sister-in-law, Rachael Breivold, aged 25, is helping to organise the event.

She said: "When Sam passed away in April, I got married in the May and we raised money at our wedding for Morriston Hospital, where the Children's Ward — ward 15 — moved to from Singleton Hospital. We raised £300.

"His parents then wanted to do something to raise money for Stepping Stones."

The evening will also have a charity raffle, and a CD for sale made by Mrs Roberts, who shot to fame after offering singing lessons to X-Factor reject Ceri Rees, and who runs the Kappa Kids and Co singing school.

Stepping Stones is also honouring Sam's memory by putting a plaque in their Killay facility.

It is due to be unveiled at a later date.

emma.judd@swwmedia.co.uk