I cannot believe I am writing this, but next year I will be running the London Marathon!! For those that know me you will know that this is not going to be easy – especially getting off the sofa and out in the cold to train!!    The reason I am putting myself through this gruelling task is in memory of our beautiful son Frankie and to raise money for Group B Strep Support.

Many of you will know that in 2014 , Lynsey and I announced we were expecting our first child together, we were so excited!  Frankie made a surprise appearance in November 2014, and although early he was born a healthy baby boy.  However, 4 days later we had to take the heart breaking decision to end his life… why?? What we didn’t realise was that during his birth Frankie had contracted an infection called Group B Strep.  Group B Strep is a natural bacteria that is found in 30% of all adults, it has no symptoms and is not harmful to an adult.  However,  when present during birth it can be passed onto the baby causing meningitis and septicaemia, and can have devastating effects ranging from permanent disability to death. We, as most first time parents had absolutely no idea about GBS, and, unfortunately,  it wasn’t picked up until Frankie was born and treatment was left too late. If Lynsey had been tested she could have been given antibiotics during labour and it would have been very likely that Frankie would have survived.

After his death we did a lot of research into the infection and we were put in touch with Group B Strep Support. The main aim of the charity is to raise awareness of the infection and the preventative measures that can be taken. The charity provides information to expectant parents who are concerned about the risks, it provides support to parents (like us) who have suffered the devastating consequences of GBS; and most importantly it works with relevant medical bodies on developing prevention strategies and national
health guidelines.

All the money raised will ensure that the charity’s good work can continue and to help raise awareness even further.  If you can make a donation it would be very much appreciated, however, if you cannot please take the time to share our story, which will continue to raise awareness and hopefully prevent another family going through this.