A charity run from Glasgow to Edinburgh will raise money for the hospital charity which saved a baby girl’s life after she became critically ill.
Dad, Connor Clark, from Glenrothes, will take on the Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra next month after his daughter, Avanna, contracted sepsis and severe respiratory failure shortly after she was born.
The baby was transferred to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, where she received treatment before eventually making a full recovery.
Connor will now run between the two cities on Saturday, October 10, in the hope of raising £3,000 for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity’s Neonatal Fund.
During Avanna’s time in intensive care, Connor and his family were also given accommodation at Crossbasket House, allowing her parents to stay within minutes of their daughter’s bedside.
Connor said: “We found Crossbasket House truly incredible, and it meant so much to us.
“We hadn’t even thought about where we would stay when we were rushed to Glasgow, our only concern was not leaving Avanna’s side.
“Today, seeing her healthy, happy and thriving reminds us just how precious that gift truly is.
“Today, Avanna is our little miracle that brightens up every day with her infectious smiles and belly giggle laughs.
“What began as the darkest chapter of our lives has become a story of hope, resilience and gratitude every single day.
“Any donation, no matter how big or small, will help support critically ill babies and their families.”
Money raised through the charity’s Neonatal Fund helps support babies receiving care in the neonatal unit and their families.
This includes VCreate, which allows hospital staff to send secure video and photo updates to parents, and Miniboos, which provides support for families of premature and sick babies.
Kirsten Watson, chief executive of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “For most of us the thought of running from Glasgow to Edinburgh is an insurmountable challenge, but we’re sure that Avanna’s resilience and determination will inspire Connor all the way to the finish line.
“The funds raised will help to ensure that the tiniest and most vulnerable babies from across Scotland receive world-class care in the neonatal unit.
“We’ll be with Connor every step of the way.”
The Glasgow to Edinburgh Ultra takes place on Saturday, October 10.
Connor’s fundraising page is available through Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity and JustGiving.
