2 years ago I welcomed the birth of my daughter Effie, but as you may or may not know, it was likely she would enter this world needing major surgery shortly after her arrival. 

What seemed likely turned into a reality when at just 5 days old she was whisked off to surgery. She came back with everything having been a success but would need time in an incubator to recuperate. It was here that we first saw her will and determination, something that I'm pleased to say hasn't diminished and is very much present today.

She spent the best part of a month on the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) ward in Bristol's St. Michaels Children's Hospital where everyday I was astounded by the care provided, not just to Effie, but to all the little ones who needed that little bit extra after birth. For this I will always be eternally grateful, not only to the unbelievable staff but also to the services and equipment that were on hand at this time (our first lockdown) to enable the little ones to grow stronger every day and eventually go home.

I have never forgotten what everyone's role was in allowing me to take my daughter home for the first time and continue to be the proud father I am today. It is time for me to do what I can to give a little bit back and to show appreciation of the effort that goes on daily in supporting those in the NICU.

I have grown my hair from the week before Effie arrived. Which being honest has been easier given the world as it was and its numerous lockdowns as fewer people have been able to see me. It has now reached a point (my shoulders) where it is time to shed the locks and so why not turn it into a "Fundrazor". Hence the idea was born that the week before Effie's 2nd Birthday I will be having my head shaved in aid of Cots for Tots with all donations gratefully received. I will also be donating the cuttings to the Little Princess Trust in the hope that they may be able to put it to good use.

Please visit the link to learn more about the great work Cots for Tots do as part of the Grand Appeal - The Bristol Children's Hospital Charity.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.