I am trekking through the Himalayas to Everest Base Camp in March 2023, for an amazing charity that has been supporting my wife and I since the death of our gorgeous son Henry.

Henry entered the world on the 1st September 2017, following a difficult and uncertain pregnancy. We didn't know it at the time, but Henry had Noonan Syndrome, a genetic condition causing a severe heart condition, feeding difficulties, club feet, and a multitude of other complications. He spent his first two months on the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) at St Mary's Hospital in Manchester.

Though we were scared about what this might mean for him, Henry was incredible, and took it all in his stride. He became a wonderful little boy, and a very cheeky toddler, with an infectious smile and a joy for life. He was adored by us all, especially his big sister Matilda.

When he was 18 months old Henry developed a cold, typical for his age. However, his cold got worse and he was admitted to hospital. Following a brief stay in hospital his condition deteriorated rapidly, he went in to cardiac arrest, and died on the 5th March 2019, in front of our eyes.

Nothing can prepare you for the death of your child. You wonder how you will live, and for a long time you are not sure you want to. It is the most lonely, devastating place to be, and you have no idea where to turn.

The charity Reuben's Retreat was born out of the loss of another beautiful boy, Reuben Michael Graham, who passed away at just 23 months old, in 2012.

Though it took months before we had the energy or courage to contact them, when we finally did, we found refuge in their experience and support, and the support of other families facing the same unimaginable future without their child. More than two years later, we continue to get that support, which we need as much now as ever.

The wonderful and dedicated people at Reuben's are currently renovating the Retreat in stages, to create a home from home for bereaved families, and families living with a child with a life threatening or life limiting condition. Every penny donated will enable them to take a step closer to completing the Retreat and providing a sanctuary for families who desperately need their support. Families like us.

Please help me to raise as much as possible for this incredible charity, in memory of my amazing boy Henry, who is loved and missed beyond words 💙