On Monday 2nd May, I am running the Milton Keynes to raise money for SSNAP a charity that supports sick newborns, their parents and the amazing NHS staff that care for them. 

Our son, Reuben Gray-Sims was born on the 2nd November at 9.34 am weighing 7lbs. Complications at birth led to Reuben being diagnosed with HIE (Hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy) which meant he needed immediate care and attention in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford.

The week that followed his birth involved multiple tests to understand the extent of brain damage, as well as ensuring that he remained stable. During this time, we were able to get to know our beautiful boy and our families were able to meet him and spend some precious time with us. We were later told the heartbreaking news that the extent of brain damage was severe and global, that Reuben would not survive long once his breathing support was removed. 

The time we spent with Reuben and the precious memories we made were only made possible by the incredible work of the neonatal nurses and SSNAP. This amazing team made an unimaginably difficult period comfortable and calm for us and our families. 

On the 10th of November, we moved to Helen and Douglas House hospice where we were able to spend some special time as a family with no tubes or machines. Reuben passed away peacefully in my arms in the early hours of the next morning. Whilst we are heartbroken, we are so grateful to have had this time with our boy, to have been able to love and comfort him in his final moments. 

Rach and I are so proud of him, to be his mummy and daddy and it's important to us that he's known. I am running this marathon in Reuben’s memory, to raise money for a charity that not only supported us in our most difficult time but does so for countless other families.