In early July, I received a life changing call from my mum explaining that my dad was in hospital. Doctors discovered that he needed an emergency heart valve replacement. He remained in Oxford’s John Radcliffe hosptial (JR) for almost a month before surgeons spent almost 9 hours operating. He then began his recovery.

During his time in hospital we witnessed the incredible work that everyone at the JR did. Their kindness, care and dedication was second to none. However, our daily visits highlighted the challenges posed by a lack of beds and resources, and we decided to try and pay something back.

In September, I am challenging myself to jog/run 100km in 30 days to raise money for the hospital. I am not a runner. I do not enjoy running and I am not very good at it.

But when faced with challenges no-one at the JR gave up and neither will I.

This will be difficult and I hope that you can support me and give whatever you can to help the wonderful people at the John Radcliffe and all the future patients that need their help.