A MUM whose little girl’s life was saved by doctors in Southampton is having a Halloween party to say thank you.

At just one month old, Sophie Arthur underwent life saving bowel surgery after she was born prematurely at 29 weeks and fell ill to a disease of the intestine causing 20 inches (50cm) of her intestine to die.

Now 18-months-old Sophie is doing well having spent more than 120 days in the hospital.

Her mum, Christine, is throwing a fundraising party to thank Southampton General Hospital’s G4 children’s surgical ward, where Sophie recovered after her surgery.

Christine, 31, said: “Sophie spent the best part of her first eight months in Southampton Hospital G4 ward and had two further operations.

“The team was amazing with her and with us as well – they showed Sophie so much care and supported us when Sophie did finally return home.

“She has just started standing up this week; every milestone means so much more for us.”

Christine hopes to raise at least £5,000 for the G4 unit by hosting a Halloween party on Friday, October 16, with a raffle, a DJ and a live band.

Christine, from Highlands Road, Fareham, said: “I’ve never arranged a party of this size before, it started off as a small idea and has just escalated.

“My brother and sister-in-law are also taking part in the Great South Run dressed as zombies the following weekend in conjunction with the party to raise money for the ward.

“We couldn’t be more thankful for the care that Sophie received last year, we promised never to forget to say thank you and give something back to the ward and team that saved Sophie’s life.”

Christine is organising the party with the help of two other mums, Sam Tomlin and Zoe Clare, whose children have also received vital treatment at the hospital.

The Halloween party is taking place at Hill Park Memorial Working Men’s Club in Highlands Road, Fareham.

Tickets cost £7.50 for adults which includes a buffet. Children under four get in free.

For more information or to donate go to justgiving.com and search “Fundraising In Aid Of Southampton Hospital Children’s Surgical Ward”.