Our daughter Eliza was born on 30th November 2017 and died on 3rd January 2019 with a still undiagnosed Neuro-muscular condition. Those 13 months were the hardest 13 months I have ever known. As a family of three we spent as much time in hospital as we did out of it; but we also pushed ourselves to do things anyone would take for granted, when at times we thought they never would have been possible.

From the start to the end of Eliza's short life she was cared for by Evelina Children’s Hospital. Whether it was during her early months in NICU or her later visits as an outpatient to the Children’s ward, the care, compassion and attention she was received was unbelievable.

The strength and determination Eliza showed during her many operations and procedures was amazing and was truly inspirational. Having never done a marathon before I’ll be remembering, and drawing on those characteristics from about the 5 mile mark I’m sure!

She was cared for by so many different departments. Neo-natal intensive care, outreach, neurology, cardiology, ear nose and throat, trachy team, physiotherapy, genetics to name but a few. My wife and I were also grateful for the counselling we received throughout our time with Evelina and this feels like the perfect opportunity to raise some funds, to give a little back to these teams and to help provide support for other families who may find themselves facing their worst fears. To be able to run the marathon in Eliza's name will make it an extremely emotional and proud day; as will having my 3 other children cheering me on; all of whom were all born at St Thomas' further cementing our relationship with the hospital.