Our daughter Emma was born on 11th March 2012 with a rare genetic condition known as Incontinentia Pigmenti (IP).  Emma spent the first weeks of her life in the Special Care Baby Unit at Southend University Hospital where she was treated for seizures and blistering of the skin, which are both consistent with IP. Emma is still being treated at Great Ormond Street for the skin condition.

Emma has just suffered a further complication of IP, namely a detached retina for which she has undergone an emergency operation performed by Mr C. K. Patel at the Oxford Eye Hospital  which is part of the John Radcliffe Hospital  in Oxford .  Prospects for vision in this eye remain poor, but it is hoped that the surgery will keep the eye alive.  Emma was referred to Mr Patel with the belief that he may be the only surgeon in the UK  who could help Emma given her age.

Mr Patel is raising funds to purchase specialised cameras, which would give cutting edge diagnostic capabilities in paediatrics.  These cameras have recently been updated for adults and Oxford  would like to continue to offer babies the same state of the art advantages, something that Mr. Patel has strived for since he was appointed a Consultant at the University hospital in Oxford  in 2001.

The cameras would make it easier, safer and less painful to monitor the eyes of Emma and infants with similar eye problems and provide a clear image of the retina.  This equipment will form a key part of Emma’s ongoing care as Mr Patel keeps a very close watch on her good eye.  There are also the benefits for future infants who need such specialist attention and care.  This will allow the Oxford Eye Hospital  to remain a key centre for paediatric retinal care both in terms of service and research to prevent and treat blinding diseases of the retina.

To help complete the funding, Anthony together with two close friends, James and Mark, will walk from the Southend University Hospital to the John Radcliffe in Oxford, hence the team name!  We are both extremely grateful for their help and support.  The team will be assisted on the route by a number of family and friends.

Jane & I would appreciate any support you may be able to give for this special cause that is so close to our hearts.