Hi,

Thanks for visiting my page and taking time to read and even consider a donation.

In April 2023 I will be taking part in the London Marathon to raise vital funds to support SHINE.

I’ve chosen to support SHINE as they provide specialist support for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, both of which have affected my beautiful niece Ellie.

Ellie was diagnosed with Spina Bifida during the 20 week scan and from that moment on I have watched my brother and sister-in-law, Danny and Rachel, go through an incredible journey to bring Ellie to where she is and I am astounded on a regular basis at Ellie’s determination to achieve her milestones.

Their journey started with a trip to Belgium at the height of the first lock down for Ellie’s tiny baby bum to briefly be removed from the uterus for the hole in her spine to be closed.

Since being born Ellie’s development has been truly amazing and she can now sit, say words, crawl as quick as any baby I’ve ever seen(even up the stairs), stand and walk with assistance.

Ellie also had brain surgery just after her first birthday to place a shunt from her head to her belly to drain excess fluid from her brain and relieve her symptoms of hydrocephalus.

SHINE are a huge support to families with both Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, however, as both conditions are extremely rare their support is vital in terms of both resources and information packs for families but also providing networking opportunities and the chance to meet others in a similar situation.

Thanks for taking the time to read,

Dave