Our son Lando was born 11 weeks prematurely with a number of challenges including a serious congenital heart defect. He weighed 2lbs 4oz and could fit in the palm of Jack’s hand. We spent 3 months in hospital from Lando’s birth and Lando underwent open heart surgery before he had reached his due date. It was without doubt the worst thing we’ve ever experienced.

But…

The team at the Neonatal Unit at Princess Anne hospital were a literal lifeline for Lando and us. Not only did they give our son the most incredible care, they also supported us through the most challenging time. The nurses became our extended family. It is difficult to express how much their care and support meant to us and we would like to give something back.

In May, Jack will attempt the ‘Fred Whitton Challenge’, a 112 mile cycle taking in all of the Lake District passes, widely considered to be the hardest one day cycle event in the UK.

In October, Emma was supposed to attempt ‘Run to the Sea’ - a 50k off-road, ultramarathon from Ringwood to Bournemouth, however due to Lando having open heart surgery, she was unable to do the event. Our very good friend Chloe will still be running in support of all of us and Emma will do a self arranged ultra across the New Forest in November.

These journeys will be tough for both of us, but nothing compared to what Lando has been through and what he has ahead.

We understand that everyday costs are challenging for everyone at the moment but if you can spare anything, we would greatly appreciate a donation so that the Neonatal Unit can continue to help babies like Lando.

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