In April 2026 I’ll be running the London Marathon to raise funds for the Stars Appeal—the charity for Salisbury District Hospital. My motivation is deeply personal: in April 2024, my son Cuthbert (“Cutty”) suffered a serious burn accident at just 17 months old.

💔 Cuthbert’s Story

On 2nd April 2024, while I was at work, Cutty reached up and knocked a mug of tea from the kitchen worktop onto himself. Despite being supervised, accidents happen in a split second. Rebecca, his mum, was just a metre away. She acted immediately—cooling the burns, removing his clothes, and calling 999. Within 20 minutes, our home was filled with first responders, paramedics, and even an air ambulance team.

Cutty was admitted to Salisbury Hospital’s Specialist Burns Unit. The initial prognosis was hopeful, but burn injuries take time to fully develop. Over the following weeks, the true depth of his injuries became clear. He underwent two operations, including a skin graft, and spent two weeks in hospital, on two separate occasions fighting infection and sepsis. The physical healing was remarkable, but the psychological impact on our family was profound.

Today, Cutty is a happy, healthy, and resilient three-year-old, still on a two-year journey of recovery. He bears his “war wound” with pride, but questions remain about how he’ll feel as he grows up and how others will react. The support we received from Salisbury Hospital and the Stars Appeal made all the difference.

🌟 Why the Stars Appeal Matters

The Stars Appeal funds vital projects for the Sarum Children’s Ward, including:

• Specialist medical equipment for burns and other serious injuries

• Beds for parents to stay with their children

• Play and sensory areas to distract and comfort young patients

• Facilities for families, like places to make a bottle or rest

• Psychological support for children and families facing trauma

Their work ensures that children like Cutty—and their families—receive the best possible care, comfort, and support during the toughest times.

🎯 My Fundraising Goal

I’m aiming to raise £2,000 for the Stars Appeal. Every donation will help provide life-changing support for children and families in the Sarum Children’s Ward.

🙏 How You Can Help

Please donate whatever you can. Your support will help fund:

• Specialist equipment and therapies

• Parental accommodation and support

• Play and sensory resources

• Psychological and bereavement support

Together, we can help make hospital a better place for children when they need it most.

Thank you so much for your support!