As many of you reading this will know, Devon-James (my son) was born extremely early (25+1 weeks) with his twin brother Teddy, due to his prematurity and birth weight (770g) he was on oxygen for many weeks. Sadly, this caused ROP, which quickly moved to stage 5 and caused his retinas to detach resulting in blindness.

For more information on ROP, please follow this link https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/retinopathy-prematurity#:~:text=What%20is%20retinopathy%20of%20prematurity,the%20back%20of%20your%20eye).

He does not let this stand in his way though and continues to thrive and amaze everybody he meets with his determination, and attitude to life, albeit being in darkness. He brings a smile to all that cross his path.

I hope to bring with me just half of his spirit as me and my cousins aim to complete the 2025 London landmarks half marathon (or as I call it 'try not to die in the middle of London')

The charity I have chosen to run for at this event, is one that has an impact every day on Devon's life, his school. For many children, going to school can be daunting, but have you ever imagined doing this with your eyes closed? This is the life/routine/challenges that Devon smashes each and every weekday.

Fiveways school, which we are fortunate to have under 5 miles from our doorstep are just amazing, find out more about them here: https://www.fivewaysschool.co.uk/

With Devon, there are key attributes you need as a person in his life, warming, welcoming, understanding, a little bit of patience, and routine. The staff at his school show these on a daily basis and we are so grateful for all they do for Devon (and the other children) and his progression in life has been clear for all to note.

Anything you can give to this charity, will be hugely appreciated and go a long way and make a massive impact on those children at this school!

Stuart

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