I am running the Silverstone half marathon for my Nephew Jacob.

Back in October at her 20 week scan my sister was told that she was having a baby boy and seconds later told there was a problem. That problem turned out to be Spina Bifida. Not sure about you but even though I had heard of it I really didn't know what is was. Basically the spine doesn't form properly during the first few weeks after conception and can lead to a spinal lesion causing lower limb paralysis, bladder & bowel issues and potentially learning difficulties. All of these are on a sliding scale and luckily Jacob's lesion is low so fingers crossed he will be lucky and he will be on the less severe end of the spectrum.

Jacob is due to be delivered on the 11th Feb and within a few short hours of being born has to undergo more than most of us will ever have to by enduring a 5 hour operation to put his nerves back in his back and create the spinal column that didn't form properly. He'll also probably have a shunt fitted to drain excess fluid from the brain.

The medical professionals give worst case scenarios and not always a balanced picture. Shine were able to provide my sister with answers and support in the difficult decisions that needed to be made. They will also continue to provide support for Jacob and family once he is born.

Please dig deep and help me support Shine to continue to provide support for the parents who are given the diagnosis of SB and all the children and adults living with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.