So 21 years ago June 2003, my son Ryan was born. At 2 weeks old Ryan wasn't well our GP said I'm probably going to waste your time, but I will send you up to the Jenny Lind for them to check him out. When we got we were told Ryan had an infection and they would be treating him aggressively, starting with a lumber puncture. We spent 2 weeks in the hospital where he managed to go through 6 long lines in 24 hours which was a bit of a record at the time (a long line should last 2-3 weeks). The picture shows Ryan with a long line in his head. In the end these were the only veins they could get to work! Eventually Ryan was diagnosed with Sepsis. Unfortunately, a few days after being discharged we were back this time for reflux and another 2 week stay. Ryan weight was off the bottom of the charts The reflux continued till he was around 11 months old. The joke became if he was sick on you it was a sign of affection. We received such great support and care from all the staff at the Jenny Lind throughout this time and for the months afterwards that I can never thank them enough.

Ryan went from a bit of scrawny baby to the 6ft strapping young man that he is today. Ryan joined Dereham Running Club when he was 14, prior to that he had spent several years Go Karting. Through Dereham Runners brilliant coaching, patience and making him work hard Ryan got to represent Norfolk at English Schools National Cross Country, Inter County Cross Country and 200 and 400 meters. Unfortunately, Ryan has since given up running, but I now run, no where near the level that Ryan did, but I enjoy it.

On 3rd March I am going to be doing the Cambridge Half Marathon, as it was Ryan who got me into running, and its his 21st this year and the Jenny Lind is celebrating being 170 years old, I thought what better way to mark it, than to raise some money for the people who potentially saved his life. Any donations greatly received, even a £1.00. Thanks Sam