Let's start with the challenge. Two thirty somethings, not naturally built for running or in fact many athletic activities at all to be honest, jogging for 10 miles at this years Great South Run. Doesn't sound too bad does it, but had you seen the state of my poor fella after his first "I nearly managed a mile" training run you might start to have a few doubts. Anyway, we have made the commitment and we believe we can do it. All we need is some solid training (we've got until October), a bit of luck along the way (no injuries, and Jon is a bit accident prone!) and as much support and encouragement as all of you can muster. No problem!?

Now to the reason. We've had two little girls. Our first little one, Lauren Lily arrived on 22nd January 2008, at just 24 weeks gestation and weighing a mere 625 grammes. She was just the most precious thing in our lives and we adored her. Unfortunately despite the best efforts of the Neonatal team at Heartlands Hospital in Birmingham, little Lauren succumbed to an infection and died after just four days. We struggled, hoped and slowly looked forward and tried again for a brother or sister for our precious Lauren. On 20th November 2008 deja vu. Ruby Hope was born at just over 25 weeks gestation, weighing a mighty 685 grammes. We were frightened and dazed but Ruby never gave up and fought off infection, tummy problems and a struggle to gain weight. However, after 18 weeks in the Neonatal unit at Heartlands Hospital Ruby finally came home and we finally became a family. Now, tough as she was and committed as we were we can't take all of the credit for getting Ruby home. That accolade goes rightly to the Doctors and Nurses who looked after Ruby (and us!) for all those weeks. Frankly some of the most fantastic people we have ever met.

So, this is just another chance for us to give something back (on top of my crazy annual charity BBQ where I regularly invite far too many family and friends around to my back garden, serve them overcooked burgers and sausages, oh yes and charge them royally for the privelege). But we wanted to do this run and put our heart and soul into raising a little but more to support the 'Newborns in Need' charity that directly raises money for the unit that looked after both of our daughters so wonderfully and saved little Ruby's life. We are running for 'Newborns in Need', in memory of Lauren and in honour of our Ruby - so give us your money, its blinkin' hard this!

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