On 21 April, I will be running my first ever marathon in memory of our beautiful and brave little girl, Chloe, and in recognition of the unbelievable care and professionalism of all the doctors, nurses and support staff at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Chloe was born on 22 February 2012 to the delight of her mum, dad and older sister, Sophie. Life was perfect, but would not remain so for long - at the age of only 11 weeks, Chloe suffered a massive respiratory collapse, and was rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital. Whilst Chloe survived this initial collapse, she would never again breathe unassisted and would not come home again.

Chloe was subsequently diagnosed as having a rare yet incurable lung condition, and finally passed away at 9.15am on 22 November 2012 – on her nine-month birthday. During her 6 months in hospital, Chloe put up an amazing fight... and she did so with courage that I have never seen before in anyone. Despite being confined to a life in hospital, often in pain or discomfort, Chloe’s glowing smiles and beautiful spirit enchanted all who came to know her. Chloe was, and remains, an inspiration, and she is missed terribly.

All the money raised from ‘Running for Baby Chloe’ will contribute to the Chloe Mansfield Fund, which has been set up to keep Chloe’s spirit alive and to help improve the lives of children who, like Chloe, are in hospital and not at home. Thuy, Sophie and I hope that we will, in time, raise enough money to fund a children’s playroom in the new respiratory ward planned at Great Ormond Street Hospital - we have seen, firsthand, the importance of play in helping improve the quality of life and happiness for sick children. We hope that you agree that this is a worthy cause, and thank you for your generosity and support.