My story so far ..

It was August 31st .....a day that changed my life for the best reason's .....my son was born.

However it was not an easy day.....The baby was out but my body was in shock from a traumatic delivery and tried desperately to redirect all of my blood flow to protect the baby it thought was still there. It was my body's kindness and care for my child that led me to bleed out to the point of death....

As the big red button in the delivery suite was activated and the crash cart rushed in along with every available doctor - i could feel my life slipping away..... all i remember was hearing the faint voice of my midwife 'she's slipping away' 'Polly stay with us' ....as her voice grew more distant.......It wasn't until i heard 'Henry needs you' that my son's name being spoken for the first time beckoned me back into the room and to the start of a 10 year recovery journey.

Due to substantial damage from the delivery, i was unable to walk properly for 3 years. BUT I WAS ALIVE!!! I WAS HERE FOR MY SON.....

Unfortunately not all mums get my second chance and some children are born into the world without a parent to guide them and raise them. This is why supporting Barnardo's for me is such a personal delight - so that i can support - through your donation - those children that need fostering due to a situation and experience similar to mine. Barnardo's put the needs and care of the child first....as these children find themselves in unimaginable circumstances through no fault of their own.

As my recovery journey continued i underwent hundreds of treatments, 5 surgeries, countless physiotherapies and lost over 10 stone so that i can today have the opportunity to run the London Marathon for this amazing charity that holds such an emotional place in my heart.

I am eternally grateful for any donation you can offer and i will be running the London Marathon with gratitude for my life, gratitude for the ability to make every step and gratitude for all the little lives your donations will help change thanks to Barnardo's

Make every moment matter 💖