BERE Alston mum Jade Alford is preparing to run the London Marathon to raise money for Bliss, the charity that supported her when her son was born prematurely. 

Jade’s son Ethan was born 14 weeks early at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, weighing just 1lb 5oz.

He was seriously ill and required breathing support to keep him alive. At just a few weeks old he had to be rushed to Bristol for emergency, lifesaving surgery.

Ethan was eventually allowed to come home at four months old and has gone from strength to strength ever since. He is now a happy, healthy six year-old. 

During their time on the unit, Jade and her husband Simon turned to Bliss, the premature and sick baby charity for support.

They spent most nights on the charity’s website for explanations of medical terms and called the helpline for advice. They found the support invaluable during a time which was very emotional and stressful for the family. 

Jade said: ‘Having Ethan so early was such a traumatic experience but Bliss’ support helped me along the way so I wanted to be able to give something back and help them support other parents like me. They are truly a lifeline for so many people.’

Every year more than 90,000 babies are born needing specialist hospital care, Bliss works for all of these babies to have the best chance of survival and quality of life, as well as providing vital support and advice for families. 

This is not the first time Jade and Simon have raised money for Bliss. In 2015 they both ran the Plymouth half marathon and Jade is also planning to run in the Bideford half marathon this year. Simon will be running in the Plymouth half marathon again, dressed as a shark with his colleagues from the Coffee Shark café, which is based in Derriford Hospital’s post graduate medical centre.  

Bliss chief executive Caroline Davey said: ‘I wish Jade the best of luck taking on this incredible challenge for Bliss. She is part of a team of dedicated runners who are raising money and awareness for premature and sick babies. The vital funds they raise will help us improve the lives of babies throughout the UK.’

If you would like to sponsor Jade, visit her online fundraising page at justgiving.com/jadealford