Jessica Wilson
Jessica's February 5k a day
Fundraising for Leicester Hospitals Charity
Story
When baby Jack was just 13 days old, I took him to Northampton hospital with what I assumed was a very bad cold. He was very sleepy and sniffly which is to be expected, but when I noticed he was sucking in at the ribs with every breath I began to worry. After a few routine tests and observations, Jack was admitted and diagnosed with a virus called RSV, which had turned into bronchiolitis. Whilst RSV is extremely common, it can be potentially devastating for babies, and especially newborns.
Jack's condition worsened extremely rapidly, and after just one day, he had to be placed on oxygen and a feeding tube. Sadly, the ever increasing levels of respiratory support that Jack received were not enough to sustain his breathing, so the heartbreaking decision was made to put Jack on a ventilator. Jack was transported to the Intensive Care Unit at Leicester hospital where he received absolutely outstanding care from the doctors, nurses and health care assistants.
Jack had to undergo a lot of invasive, uncomfortable and painful tests and procedures at just two weeks old. And it was devastating to watch my baby suffer and be unable to hold him, feed him and comfort him in the ways that I would have liked. But he was an absolute fighter, and after 6 days on a ventilator, Jack showed signs of recovery and was able to breath again unaided.
I'm sharing this story for two reasons. Firstly, I'd like to raise awareness about RSV. Before Jack was diagnosed, I knew very little about this virus. In fact, most people haven't heard of it. For some children the virus will present as a nasty cold, but others can become extremely unwell, very quickly. Because it presents as a common cold, it isn't very easy to distinguish. But if you have any concerns about your child's breathing (particularly if they are bobbing their head or sucking in at the ribs) do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Even if it is just for peace of mind, get them seen ASAP.
The second reason is because I would like to raise money for the amazing Leicester hospital. While I can never repay them for saving my baby's life, I would like to pledge to walk 5k a day for all of February to raise money to help them with their goal of building a designated children's hospital in Leicester. I cannot put into words how amazing the doctors, nurses and HCA's were, and the fantastic care that Jack received. During his stay, a nurse stayed by his side 24/7. He was never alone for a single moment. I can't fathom the strength and resilience it takes to do their job and if I can help them in any way to continue to provide incredible care to critically ill children, I would be immensely proud.
I had a c-section two months ago, so unfortunately I won't be running any marathons anytime soon. But if you could consider donating to this amazing cause, I will walk 5k a day with my amazing little guy for company.
Thanks for reading :)
Please support me to raise money for the Leicester Children's Hospital Appeal and help create a new, dedicated children's hospital in Leicester for all of our children.To learn more about the appeal, visit www.DoThemProud.com
