Devastated Mother Appeals For Return of “Hugely Precious” Missing Doll

A family is devastated after the loss of a cherished doll that belonged to their daughter, Matilda, who they lost just three months after she was born. Baby Matilda was born in July 2013 but was diagnosed with Edward's Syndrome shortly after her birth. Her mother Claire Gray told the Irish Independent: “My little baby daughter Matilda grew her angel wings in 2013 aged three months. She was given a gorgeous little dolly with her name on it when she was born." She went on to explain the huge significance that the doll holds for the whole family. “We call her 'Matilda Doll'. Matilda touched this doll. It was same size as her and is so hugely precious to us. I've cuddled Matilda doll to sleep every night since Matilda passed away. She even came to hospital with me when Matilda's baby brother Archie was born." Claire began a campaign this week on social media searching for the doll after it was lost in Dublin Zoo. The heartbroken mother told Independent.ie: “I am absolutely devastated; I feel like we’ve lost a piece of Matilda.” “She comes with us as a way of Matilda being with us for family photos, which are so painful after losing your child as she is always missing." “She comes with us for all Matilda's little brother Archie's 'firsts' such as first time at Santa. On Monday 30th May it was Archie's first time at the Dublin Zoo so of course we brought Matilda doll too as Matilda never actually got to go to the zoo which breaks my heart.” ”She means more than words can express. For us she is a piece of our little Matilda. I feel so stupid for losing her and very distressed. Please please please help me to get her back home." According to the family, the doll went missing somewhere between the zoo shop, gate and Lord's Walk car park, they are appealing for anyone who might have information to contact Claire via Facebook. Images via Facebook