A dad from Arlesey is set for the Royal Parks Half Marathon this Sunday in aid of Tommy’s – the charity that helped him and his family when his daughter when she was born premature.
Christian Turton hopes to raise £1,000 for the Tommy’s, which funds research into still birth, premature birth and miscarriage, after his daughter Elizabeth was born prematurely at 27 weeks.
Elizabeth, known as Tizzy, was born with a growth restriction due to a problem with the umbilical cord, which later caused preeclampsia.
She was born at Lister Hospital but was soon rushed overnight to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.
Weighing just 1lb 4oz, she spent the next three and a half months there.
Christian, aged 40, said: “Due to the need for breathing support, her underdeveloped lungs were damaged by the ventilation machine – a necessity to keep her alive.
“She has some catching up to do due to her rocky start but she is a very happy and determined young girl.”
Tizzy eventually came home on oxygen in time for Christmas 2012.
She had to be attached to an oxygen tank until she was three and a half but since has made an amazing recovery.
Christian is keen to support Tommy’s, the charity which campaign to raise awareness of the issue of baby loss and provide research into pregnancy support, miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth.
He said: “Tommy’s provide a free book for parents of premature babies, we ordered this and it helped us to understand things a lot more.
“They offer excellent research into miscarriage and birth problems, so we are keen to support them.
“Birth problems have also affected members of the family so it’s a cause close to my heart.
“I have been training as much as possible and I go out at least three runs a week and at least one of them will be a 10k. Due to a busy job and commute into London, it’s not so easy.”
Christian completed the Royal Parks Half 13.1 miles last year in two hours, five minutes. This year he hopes to beat it.
Now six years old, Tizzy will be supporting her dad from the side lines along with his wife, Kate.
To find out more information about the Half Marathon visit royalparkshalf.com
To donate to Christian’s cause go to https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/cturton.
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