Anthony Robinson

This November I’m taking on the Premmie Marathon Challenge

I’ll be clocking up my kms in the Premmie Marathon Challenge to raise funds for life-saving neonatal equipment that will give critically ill and premature babies a better chance of survival.

What inspired me to take part in the Premmie Marathon Challenge isn’t so much a story about a premature birth (although Lucas did arrive a little earlier than expected), but rather about the incredible neonatal equipment, funded by Running for Premature Babies, that played a life-saving role in my nephew’s start to life.

 When Lucas was born he wasn’t breathing. At first, doctors suspected a problem with his lungs, but treatment for that didn’t make much difference to his condition.

He was transferred to Sydney Children’s Hospital that same afternoon, where multiple tests revealed that he had a congenital heart defect requiring urgent surgery.

 At just two days old, Lucas underwent lifesaving open-heart surgery to repair the defect. He was connected to countless monitors and machines that helped keep him alive and supported his recovery.

Lucas spent a month in hospital, cared for by the incredible doctors and nurses who guided him through every step of his healing journey. Today, he is a healthy 17-year-old — and our entire family are forever grateful to all the amazing staff, and for the medical equipment that gave him the chance to live the full life he enjoys today.

My goal is to run, walk or cycle 420km (equivalent to 10 marathons) during the month of November and to raise funds and awareness to such a worthy cause. 

I'd love your support - if you can, please make a generous tax-deductible donation here.

Thank you for your support.