Hi All,

On the 20^th February this year my niece Sophie Merendidis was born at The Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford. At only 1 day old however, she needed life saving surgery and instead of coming home she spent weeks in the hospitals Special Baby Care Unit on the Toms ward.

As you can image it was a difficult and stressful time for the family and especially Sophia’s mum and dad. The staff at the ward were brilliant and made us feel she was in safe hands. It is amazing what modern medicine can do but also inspiring to see people like the staff at the hospital dedicated to not only caring for those with difficulties but really helping family and friends through such a difficult time.

Sophia in now 4 months old and despite all her difficulties is the smiliest baby I have ever seen. She has been so strong through it all. She has now had her second surgery and due another visit again in a few months. Their continued support and care at the hospital has been brilliant.

To make sure the hospital has all the equipment it needs to care for new born babies with difficulties they need specialised equipment. This fundraising will go to make sure they can buy the necessary equipment and help others in similar positions to Sophia and many more other babies that need extra care.

I know there is a ‘credit crunch’ glooming over us all but every little bit counts. I will be working hard for your money.....

-          Next Sunday 11^th June – come rain or heat wave (hopefully rain and not heat wave!) I will be doing the British 10km run through London. For those of you that know me, you will have heard the stories of my training – starting with only being able to do 1.3km (very poor) I have been training uphill routes through Fryant way (the flies are delicious!). It has been an up and down training and I am very nervous about Sunday. 

-          If this wasn’t hard enough I will also be abseiling down the Radcliff hospital building......(AND ITS HIGH! See the photo if you don’t believe me!!) on the 19^th September.

Your support and donations will be much appreciated.

Many thanks in advance for your support

Eleanor