A Cumbrian family wants to raise £15,000 for the hospital which cared for their premature son.
Tom and Rebecca Howe welcomed Jack into the world in 2020, just 24 weeks into Rebecca’s pregnancy. He was rushed to the neo natal unit at James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough, but survived for only five days.
Now the couple, of Cockermouth, want to raise cash for the unit that gave them that extra precious time with their son.
Rebecca said: “Cumbria doesn’t have the specialist care and equipment needed for such young, premature babies so we were transferred to the nearest hospital that had availability which was Middlesbrough.
“During our precious time together, we were able to cuddle him, hold his hand and see his responses to our touch and sounds. The memories that we made during his time at Middlesbrough will last forever.
“The unit was incredible, and we can’t thank them enough for their expertise in trying to save Jack’s life, and the support they gave us as parents.”
To say thank you, the couple are raising funds for lifesaving equipment to be placed at James Cook Hospital to help families and their premature babies.
They have organised a series of fundraising challenges to hit their £15,000 – and have already raised £5,000 towards their goal.
On April 15, Rebecca and Gemma Ford will do the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge and on April 23, Tom will run the London Marathon. ON May 23, Derwent Athletics’ Hay O Trail is in memory of Jack and on May 28, Rebecca will run the Edinburgh Marathon.
Tom and Kells Cycling Club will attempt the Three Peaks Challenge.
There are two events people can sign up for and all proceeds will go direct to the fundraising.
On June 28, there will be a 5k race at M-Sport’s private track at Dovenby – people can enter for this unique experience here. There are 300 places available.
On July 15, there is a Texas Scramble golf competition at Cockermouth Golf Club.
Both events have had prizes donated for participants by local firms.
For more information, or to donate, visit the justgiving page here.
