Rachael Davies, from Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire chose to run the London Marathon for The Great North Children’s Hospital after her son Thomas had a haemorrhagic stroke in 2024. Here Rachael shares Thomas’ story and why she chose to fundraise.

“Last year our eldest son, Thomas, spent four months in The Great North Children’s Hospital after unexpectedly experiencing a haemorrhagic stroke. It was a tough time for the whole family but the care he received at this hospital was absolutely fantastic.

“From the staff in A&E, the doctors and nurses in intensive care, to the whole team on the neuro rehab ward (Ward 1b), we are so grateful for all they did to get Thomas back to the happy, confident, fantastic young man he is. Thanks to all their hard work and input he is now back at school, preparing to take his GCSEs and is swimming competitively again with his swim club.

“I had a place to do the London Marathon in April 2024 but postponed it due to Thomas being in hospital. I was able to run the London Marathon this year (April 2025) and wanted to use the opportunity to raise money for the charity linked to this incredible hospital to thank them for all they have done for our family and so they can continue the great work they do.”

We are so grateful to our fundraisers like Rachael who choose to take on a challenge in support of us. Rachael raised more than £1,500 for The Great North Children’s Hospital.

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