"I’m attempting a double marathon to raise money for Bliss." – Gethin’s Story

On Sunday 27th April, I’m attempting a double marathon to raise money for Bliss. In the early hours of the morning, I’ll take on the full London Marathon course in reverse - starting at the finish, and finishing at the start. After a short break, I’ll then turn around and join the masses to participate in the official race through the capital… in the conventional direction.

I know that sounds ridiculous, but the cause means a great deal to me and my wife, Rebecca. Our daughter, Phoebe, joined us much sooner than anticipated in the summer of 2023, arriving in dramatic and distressing circumstances in the middle of a weekend away from home, at only 31 weeks.

All our expectations about childbirth disappeared in a flash. No chance to meet other parents at antenatal classes. No precious first few hours with our baby. And no opportunity to process the trauma.  

My wife and I became parents within minutes of arriving at the hospital, but Phoebe needed so much more than we could give her. We stayed in hospital by her side, watching on as other parents took their babies home, one by one.

We began navigating a world we knew nothing about. Our days filled by waiting and worrying. We learned what every machine beep meant, and the purpose of every wire. We became experts in neonatal lingo. We knew all the doctors and nurses by name. We cried with other parents by incubators. We washed our hands until they cracked. And we ate in the hospital canteen so often that staff began asking to see my staff pass. But our experience is not unique, and we were not alone.  

We will always be grateful for the amazing support we received during the most difficult period of our lives, both from our loved ones, and those who dedicate their lives to helping families like ours. The tiny baby clothing in the unit, the phenomenal neonatal medical care, the additional time away from work to be by Phoebe’s side… these things matter so much, and they wouldn’t happen without Bliss. The leading UK charity for babies born premature or sick, every year Bliss provide life-changing support to thousands of families when they need it most.

After 39 days in Portsmouth Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Rebecca and I were delighted to bring our baby girl back home to London. We’re so pleased to say that Phoebe is now a walking, babbling bundle of fun. Happy, healthy and approaching her second birthday, she brings us joy every day.

We believe that every parent and premature baby deserve the same help we were lucky enough to receive, and a donation to Bliss can make that possible. If you’re interested in sponsoring my challenge and supporting this cause, you can contribute here. Anything you can share would be hugely appreciated.

Thanks for reading my story.