The Grand Appeal supports Bristol Children’s Hospital by funding pioneering, life-saving equipment and research so that young patients have access to the best possible
treatment and care at times when they are desperately ill. It also provides free accommodation for families so they can be near to their precious children and strives to support family members during the most difficult times of their lives.

In May 2014, Callum, the gorgeous son of our friends Claire and Ian and brother to their daughter Emily, suddenly became seriously unwell. He suffered a cardiac arrest at home and was initially rushed to Derriford Hospital (Plymouth) and then transferred to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. Four days later, on Sunday 18th May, Callum so very sadly passed away at just four years old.

During those few days in hospital, the doctors who desperately tried to help Callum discovered he had a large, aggressive and rapidly growing lymphoma covering part of his chest (lymphoblastic lymphoma, a form of Non-Hodgkins). Although he showed no previous symptoms at all, Callum's tumour was so aggressive it had blocked his airway which caused the cardiac arrest. In turn, it caused a lack of oxygen to his little brain, causing catastrophic brain injury.

The lives of Callum's family since that heartbreaking day, in particular his lovely mum Claire, dad Ian and sister Emily will simply never be the same again. However, they have all worked so very hard to raise money for The Grand Appeal in Callum's memory to support Bristol Children's Hospital. It is hoped this will help the hospital to continue both its incredible medical work as well as providing accommodation and on-going support to families.

It is for Callum and all of these reasons why I would like to raise money for the Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal for Bristol Children's Hospital. I hope my attempt to swim 22 miles across the English Channel whilst avoiding passing ships and jellyfish will encourage you to please donate generously!

Many thanks for your support.