A MAN from Lower Earley will be tackling the Reading Half Marathon this weekend in aid of the hospital ward which is currently caring for his granddaughter.
Paul Mason, 42, decided to take on the 13-mile challenge on Sunday, March 19 after his second granddaugther, Izzy, was born at 32 weeks.
Paul said: “She was very early, as was her sister Lottie who was also cared for in the Buscot Ward at the Royal Berkshire Hospital.
“I like to keep fit and healthy anyway, but a few weeks ago my wife, Debbie, saw an appeal put out by the Babies in Buscot (BiBs) team asking for anyone to join their team, as someone had dropped out.
“I knew I wanted to do something to show my appreciation for what they’ve done for my family and this seemed perfect. Running 13 miles is the least I can do.
“I’ve been running a lot, I’ve managed to get some decent distances down, so hopefully I’ll be able to finish on the day!”
Paul is one of a team of runners who are hoping to raise £20,000 for the ward, which cares for premature babies and their families.
Paul said: “The staff on the ward are great, they have a lot of patients in there but you always feel like you are special, they really do care.
“Obviously when Izzy was born it was quite a traumatic time for her mother Alice, my daughter, but they have gone above and beyond for her and the baby, and hopefully she is now on the mend and will be coming home soon.”
To sponsor Paul visit http://bit.ly/2ns9JDE .
