In April 2024, our world was turned upside down when my wife Lucy was rushed to theatre for an emergency C-section at 36 weeks. On delivery, our little girl Sophie struggled to breathe and was fighting suspected sepsis. In the hours that followed, further investigations confirmed she had bilateral choanal atresia, a rare condition where both nasal passages are completely blocked.

Whilst emergency intubation saved her life, she needed surgery in order to breathe independently. On top of this, in preparation for surgery, four weeks on a ventilator came with its own complications, as her airway narrowed around the ventilator tube (known as subglottic stenosis).

Sophie has spent over 100 days in hospital and endured seven rounds of surgery to correct these issues. Her eighth operation is booked for early February, although she is now at home and able to enjoy life, supported by regular outpatient appointments.

Without the incredible work of surgeons, doctors, nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, breastfeeding specialists and all of the many other incredible staff at Sheffield's Children Hospital, the incredible progress Sophie has made in the last 9 months would not have been possible. We remain indebted to everyone involved in her ongoing care.

As a small token of our appreciation and in support of their care for so many children, a team of Sophie's family and friends are taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. This is a 24 mile route across the peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, featuring 1585m of ascent.

If you can, please spur us on with a donation, no matter the size, so we can help this fantastic hospital continue to change the lives of brave kids like Sophie. We would really appreciate your support.