Running for World Prematurity Day - Little Luca
"My wife and I never thought World Prematurity Day would have so much importance, or be so dear to our family’s heart".
"My wife and I never thought World Prematurity Day would have so much importance, or be so dear to our family’s heart. On May 26th 2022 the complete unexpected happened, our Little Luca the Lion was born.
Luca was born at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, gestation age 23 weeks + 5 days and weighed just 680 grams. With only 4 in 10 babies surviving being born at 23 weeks, Luca fought and was determined to be with us. He is our miracle baby and we’re so blessed to have him in our lives.
We were incredibly fortunate and are appreciative, so we want to give back by raising money for the two charities that had an impact during this difficult time. We spent 48 days in Oxford NICU and living 2 hours away, a huge pressure was lifted when we were told we could stay at the Ronald McDonald House within the hospital premises.
The other charity, SSNAP Oxford, gave us overall support. Providing food, drinks, snacks, someone to talk to and generally being there if we needed anything.
I am raising funds by retracing our journey, on World Prematurity Day itself, 17th of November. Starting at our home, followed by Peterborough City Hospital and ending at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.
I aim to complete this by running, jogging, and walking that journey of 89 miles within 2 days.
We would like to sponsor a room for a family for 6 months in Luca’s name. It costs £35 to accommodate a family for one night, a total of £6,500.
Our target for SSNAP is £2500.
Thank you for your support!" Julio Barrientos
