Your friends are fundraising. Don't miss out, opt in.

Ollie’s fundraiser for ”Hold the Moment” Worcestershire Maternity Services

Ollie Betteridge is raising money for Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity

London Marathon 2026 · 26 April 2026 · Start fundraising for this event

We support the patients, staff and services of Worcestershire's acute hospitals by providing additional extras over the core NHS provision that improve the experience for all. From artwork to the latest medical equipment our aim is to make the experience that bit more comfortable for all.

Story

Hi everyone,

Thanks so much for visiting my sponsorship page.

I’m absolutely over the moon to share that I’ll be running the 2026 London Marathon in support of the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, raising funds for maternity services as part of the Hold the Moment – Maternity Appeal. This cause is incredibly close to my heart, and I’d love to share my story so you can see just how much of a difference maternity services make.

During my wife’s pregnancy, everything went smoothly. Before labour, we were happy and confident things would be as “plain sailing” as childbirth could ever be. We were so relaxed, in fact, that my wife even joked that if our little girl got too comfortable, I should ask the midwife for one last chance to push (this detail becomes very important later!).

Fast forward to the early hours when my wife went into labour. I drove her nervously but excitedly to Worcestershire Royal Hospital. We were settled into a room and, although the contractions were painful (as expected!), everything still felt normal. The midwives on shift were kind, reassuring, and calm - exactly what you’d hope for in that moment.

Soon after, we moved to a larger room and met Sue, a brilliant midwife with incredible knowledge and warmth. She guided my wife with so much care, but despite everyone’s best efforts, our little girl just wasn’t budging.

As the hours passed, things took a worrying turn. While my wife slept, a registrar entered to discuss a C-section. Remembering my wife’s request, I asked if she could try pushing once more — but the registrar told me firmly that there was no time, and if they didn’t act immediately, I could lose them both. It was terrifying, but crystal clear what had to be done.

The next few moments were a blur. I was quickly changed into scrubs (no size 13 shoes, sadly!) and brought to my wife in theatre. What I witnessed next was nothing short of extraordinary: a perfectly coordinated, highly skilled team working calmly under pressure. Despite the fear and urgency, I instantly felt reassured knowing my wife and daughter were in the very best hands. Moments later, our beautiful daughter was born safely and placed in my arms, while the team continued caring for my wife.

Quite simply, if it wasn’t for the incredible people working in maternity services, I wouldn’t have the two most important people in my life with me today.

Running the London Marathon has always been on my bucket list - but running it for such a worthy cause makes it even more meaningful. This is my chance to give back and help maternity services continue their amazing work for families every day.

Funds raised from the appeal will support:

• Buddy beds – so partners can stay close and share those precious moments.

• Specialist jaundice meters – improving comfort and care within the community.

• Environmental improvements – creating calmer, more welcoming, and supportive spaces.

• Bereavement Suite expansion – giving families more dignity, rest, and space to make memories.

Every donation, big or small, will make a real difference to parents, babies, and families across Worcestershire.

If you see me out running, cycling, or swimming - don’t forget to give me a wave, or even join me for a kilometre or two!

Thank you so much for your support and generosity. Together, we can help make sure other families get the same incredible care we did.

Donation summary

Total
£862.00
+ £38.75 Gift Aid
Online
£505.00
Offline
£357.00

Charities pay a small fee for our service. Learn more about fees