This is for Rhys.

He was born on Tuesday 26th April 2016, 11:20pm, weighing in at 6lb 9. Rhys was born with a full head of hair and a little button nose. Just perfect.

One hour later his cousin was born at the same hospital, Our families shared a special experience together. It couldn't be more perfect, two Keegan boys, born one hour apart, ready to grow up together and be best friends.

Rhys quickly stole the hearts of everyone who visited him. He brought with him everything you would expect from a new born baby… dirty nappies, crying for milk and cuddles, and the hugest amount of love you can ever feel. After just 5 days at home, Rhys became unwell and was taken by ambulance to Blackpool Victoria hospital. He very quickly became very poorly, he was battling with a severe infection - E Coli Sepsis. Rhys required urgent transfer to Manchester Children’s Hospital for specialist treatment. The team from Manchester travelled to Blackpool and supported staff in stabilising his blood pressure enough for him to make the journey.

Rhys spent 4 days in the paediatric intensive care unit at Manchester Children’s Hospital truly fighting against the infection. He was so brave and strong, but the infection was fierce and being so little, Rhys didn’t have the immunity to beat it. On Thursday 5th May, at just 9 days old, Rhys passed away peacefully in his mummy's arms with his daddy right by his side. If love could have saved him, he would have lived forever.

We would like to share his story to help raise money for Manchester Children’s Hospital. Throughout his stay there, nothing was ever too much for the staff. They offered exceptional medical support, nursing support, emotional support, reassurance and empathy. I know Rhys touched the heart of every single member of staff who had the pleasure of meeting him.

To celebrate Rhys’s life and to support the ongoing committed work at Manchester Children’s Hospital, Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, we are running the Manchester Half marathon on Sunday 16 October 2016. If you would like to be involved in this fantastic cause there are a number of ways you can become involved; joining us in running the half marathon, supporting us by cheering us on the day, offering a kind donation onto the justgiving site. We will be running (or walking) in small groups so lots of support and opportunity for everyone to get involved. Don’t contemplate, just do it… life is too short #RunForRhys