On the 3rd of August last year, Beth and I were ecstatic to welcome our second child into the world, Sullivan Thomas Rivers. However, despite a straightforward pregnancy and seemingly perfect labour, it immediately became apparent that all was not well. We'd subsequently learn that Sulley was suffering from HIE (https://hiehelpcenter.org/what-is-hypoxic-ischemic-encephalopathy/), in short a severe shortage of oxygen to his brain and the rest of his body for reasons that we will ultimately never know, but in the moment all we knew was panic as a sea of doctors, nurses and midwives immediately attended to him. They were able to stabilise him and we were transferred to the baby intensive care unit in Queen Charlotte's hospital where we were able to spend three wonderful days with him. Unfortunately, even with the best care imaginable, the damage to his body was too severe and he passed away on the 6th August.

While there was no happy ending to our story, there are many other parents who are fortunate enough to have their babies survive in similar circumstances. However, in a large number of these cases the impacts can be life changing in a different way. Survivors can experience everything from mild developmental difficulties to the need for full time care. This is where Peeps come in, providing support to those affected by HIE and raising awareness of this rare condition. They have been a real help to us, and we therefore wanted to mark what would have been Sulley's first birthday with a fundraising run in his memory. We will both be running a half marathon and would truly appreciate any donations in his name. 

I will also be doing a 100 mile bike ride in September with the All England Lawn Tennis Club and Willmott Dixon, who have incredibly offered to also contribute all donations to Peeps on behalf of Sulley. AETLC will also be match funding all donations, so each effectively counts as double.

It offers a small crumb of comfort knowing that Sulley is still able to have a positive impact on the world even if he can't be with us, and we thank you in advance for your generosity.