In February 2024 our 3 year old son, Dougie, spent 12 nights in Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, having been transferred by the Nwts (North West & North Wales Paediatric Transport Service) after a stay in our local hospital in Preston.

We spent 8 nights in Intensive care (PICU) where he was intubated and treated for a number of infections, including a collapsed lung due to Invasive Group A Strep and Pneumonia. We were moved to Ward 85 where we spent the following week before discharge. He is still under the care of the respiratory team but we’re delighted to say that he is back to our happy, healthy toddler once again!

We were absolutely in awe of the care he received at RMCH. The dedication of the nursing team, the diligence and wonderful communication from the Doctors and Consultants, the attention and distraction from the play team plus everyone else who played a vital role in his care and recuperation. We were determined to ‘give something back’ after this was all over. We knew we had to raise money for this wonderful hospital so that other families could continue to receive exceptional care.

We are planning 'Dougie's Dozen'...12 fantastic fundraisers over a 12 month period, for the boy who spent 12 nights in hospital (and was born on the 12th of the month!)...we'd love to raise £8k but do we dare to dream we can stick with the dozen theme and aim for £12k?!

Our events include family fun runs with our children, sky dives with our team at Little Beans Play Cafe, a 19 storey hotel abseil with Baby Sensory Class Leaders, a half marathon for Ellie & Gordon and finally, the pinnacle of our 12 months and new-found running mission...a MARATHON!!

As part of our family business, we're also running a number of themed Baby Sensory and Toddler Sense classes where all ticket sales will go to our overall fund.

We have applied to run the London Marathon 2025 for Royal Manchester Children's Hospital however demand for places is exceptionally high. If we aren't successful, they have instead guaranteed us 2 places in the Manchester Marathon. So either way...next April, we are running a marathon!!

We really hope you can get behind our very worthy cause and help us to smash our target of £8,000.

Our 4 kids are kicking off the fundraising for us with the AJ Bell Manchester Children's Runs on 25th May 2024. Dougie and Matilda will take part in the Mini run while Finley & Maisie will join the junior run around the Etihad Stadium.

We'll update you on our next fundraiser as soon as dates are confirmed but all sponsorship will be collated here and if you're sponsoring a specific person or event, please give them a mention in the comments!

Thank you so much for any contribution you can manage.

Ellie, Gordon (& Dougie!) x