Here is Margot's story.

After 5 years of trying to conceive and paying for two rounds of IVF (unsuccessful), both my wife and I started to contemplate other alternatives........However, mid November 2018...the day we had been waiting so long for happened......a positive pregnancy test!

Seeing those two lines meant everything to us.....but how little did we know then how challenging our journey would be.

During our routine 20 week scan, it became apparent something wasn’t quite right....After being told there was something wrong with Margot's spine, we were referred to a specialist for the next day and after further scans, we were told our child has the most serious form of spina bifida and that many parents choose termination due to the life changing complications. However, this was never an option for us and for the remainder of my wife's pregnancy, we were in hospital at least twice a week for regular check ups. Fast forward to Margot being born, it was the happiest day of my life. Seeing her for the first time, I knew then what I needed to do going forward to ensure she has the best life possible.

6 weeks into her life, she had major back surgery which lasted over 9 hours and thanks to the miraculous work carried out by our consultant, we were told Margot would be able to walk going forward.

Unfortunately, we pretty much lived in hospitals for the first year of her life due to the numerous UTI's she continually contracted......however, this didn't detract her from becoming such a beautiful and happy baby.

Fast forward 5 and a half years and after countless hospital appointments, operations, procedures and her continuing problems, she has grown into such an inspirational child who loves life and just wants to be happy :)

With that, I have always wanted to undertake a life changing challenge and also one where Margot could recognize the hard efforts from her Daddy.

And so, here I am, being apart of the amazing Shine Charity where my aim is to raise as much money as possible to help not only all people affected with Spina Bifida, but also for all family and friends who are continuously there to help, support and be there for all.

Shine provides specialist support from before birth and throughout the life of anyone living with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus, as well as to parents, families, carers and professional care staff. Shine enables people to get the best out of life. Everything we do is made possible by our generous supporters. Your donation helps individuals and families in your local communities across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Every donation has the potential for profound impact.

THANK YOU for supporting Shine!