Story
Ben’s Story
On 26 April 2026, Ben will be running the London Marathon to raise money for Teddy’s Wish, a baby loss charity that supported our family during the most unimaginable time.
In 2023, our son George Robert Picknett tragically died at just eight days old. Losing him was the most devastating experience of our lives, and that grief is felt every single day.
Teddy’s Wish provided us with bereavement counselling and the chance to attend a retreat with other bereaved parents. Having the space to connect, share our stories, and celebrate our babies has been an invaluable part of our healing journey.
Now, Ben wants to give back to this incredible charity by running the London Marathon and raising funds to help other families in need. Below is George’s story.
George’s Story
Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.
Our second child, George, was born on 20 April 2023. We were overjoyed to bring him home the next day and settle into our perfect newborn bubble.
On his seventh day, we returned to the hospital because George seemed lethargic and wasn’t feeding well. Doctors discovered he had a low temperature and began antibiotics while testing for infection.
In the early hours of 28 April, George’s condition deteriorated rapidly. He was moved to special care, and doctors worked tirelessly to resuscitate him and prepare him for transfer to a specialist hospital. Tragically, he never made it.
A post-mortem revealed George had contracted a severe virus—usually mild for adults and older children but, in rare cases, deadly for newborns.
Leaving the hospital with an empty car seat and an empty cot was the most heartbreaking moment of our lives. Our world changed forever.
We think about George every day. He is part of everything we do. We will never see him take his first steps, say his first words, or start school. That loss is felt deeply, every single day. Speaking his name and honouring his memory publicly means everything to us.
Why Teddy’s Wish Matters
Teddy’s Wish provides vital support for families grieving the loss of a baby and funds research into the causes of SIDS, stillbirth, and neonatal death.
#ForBabyGeorge
Any donation, big or small, will make a difference. Thank you for helping us keep George’s memory alive and supporting other families through their darkest days.