BOOOOMSKABIBBLE ITS HAPPENING !!

The World Beard and Moustache Championships are being held this year in Antwerp, Belgium.  I'm going to be there with all my pals from Rugby's finest Beardclub ... BUT I'm going to go on my own epic journey to get there. True Forrest gump style! YES I am going to run, jog, walk and crawl the aptly Spartanesque 300 mile distance from Rugby to Antwerp in May 2019.

I thought this would be an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and funds for fabulous guys at the UHCW Neonatal Unit who enabled the lives of my Sisters epic little people, Luke & Eva. 

Just over 4 years ago my Niece & Nephew were brought into this world 3 months too soon and they almost didn't make it.  Today they are the most beautiful, interesting and loving kids an Uncle could wish for (for like 2 hours at a time tops - anymore than that is hard work!)

They bring so much joy to so many people.  Our family and anyone that knows them have all benefited so much from Luke & Eva getting through their harrowingly traumatic tough times and making it to become the amazing little people they are today.

I wanted to give back to the unit at UHCW who gave so much professional attention and love, not only to those babies but my sister, family and all the other babies that sadly do not make it.  I know my sister experienced the fear everyday that she may get woken up to the news that they hadn't make it.  We were the lucky ones and feel so much for those that been affected by those who didn't make it.

I visited an open day in remembrance and celebration of everyone that comes and goes at the Neonatal unit.  The staff there are so courageous to deal with so many highs and lows on a daily basis.  They deserve recognition and all of the support/technology that we can afford.

Going deep and really honest, I believe humans can learn to cope with the idea of older people passing when their time is up. I'm not saying that is easy but on most occasions It can be understood and accepted.  

So for anyone to see or experience the premature death of such innocent babies is a tragic and traumatic event.  We were lucky in that we didn't experience it. But so many families do. And the staff there see it more times than anyone should have to in a lifetime.  They are real strong and caring people to do that job.  It shouldn't cost money to run these units and save these babies but unfortunately in this modern world where everyone at the top wants to make money for something then that means it does cost money, so please consider a donation If you can. 

Reading our story and thinking about it all over I've welled up so I count my blessing once again.

Luke & Eva - I love you xx

Uncle Damo and his beard are off to Belgium so I will see you when i'm back and maybe we'll plan an adventure for when you're even bigger!!

This is going to be tough -  averaging almost a marathon a day...its about 12 marathons in total.  I am not a runner by any stretch of the imagination but I know my mindset will carry me to the finish line.  If Luke&Eva can keep going through their adversities then I can get to Antwerp on my own two feet. (oh and one ferry)

Follow my journey on here and social media....

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THANK YOU 

UNCLE DAMO4SHOW

xxxxx