My daughter, Maude, was born at just 27 weeks and 6 days, and we spent the first 9 weeks of her life in neonatal units at St Georges, St Helier and Epsom hospitals. While the clinical care we received was exceptional, it was the additional support from Bliss that truly helped us navigate the emotional and practical challenges of having a baby in neonatal care.

From the thoughtful gifts on Christmas Day to the tiny baby grows that finally fitted Maude at the end, every small gesture made a big difference. But what stood out most was the compassion—the lovely lady from the Bliss support team who checked in regularly, understanding just how hard it is to be a parent watching their child go through such a difficult time. That personal support brought so much comfort and reminded us that we weren’t alone.

Bliss didn’t just offer emotional support—they also raise vital funds for the lifesaving equipment that makes neonatal care possible, such as incubators and monitors. Knowing that Bliss helps ensure hospitals have the tools they need to give premature babies the best possible start fills me with huge admiration and gratitude. We now have a very healthy and happy baby thanks to all of the amazing care we received.

As you are aware I am not a natural runner and definitely not built for long distances so this is going to be some challenge!

1 in every 7 babies born in the UK will need specialist care.

Bliss is the leading UK charity for babies born premature or sick. They rely on donations to fund their work, and without our help they won't be able to reach the 90,000 babies needing neonatal care each year.

Your donation to my page will help Bliss to drive improvements in neonatal care, to ensure that the needs of babies are at the heart of policy and planning for the future, and to provide information and support to all families with a baby born premature or sick.