Inspired by her niece who was born prematurely, a property solicitor at Humphries Kirk LLP in Parkstone completed the Bournemouth Marathon last month to raise vital funds for charity.
Charlotte Dollimore completed the 26.2 mile route in 4 hours and 38 minutes and has so far raised more than £800. The money has gone to BLISS, the charity that provides care and support for premature and sick babies as well as their families.
Little Ruby was born almost 12 weeks before her due date as a result of Charlotte’s sister suffering from a severe and life-threatening form of pre-eclampsia.
Charlotte said: “The marathon was one of the toughest mental and physical challenges I have ever done. But compared to what Ruby, my sister and her husband went through last year, it has been a walk in the park.
“I will never forget the day I met Ruby through an incubator, weighing just 2lb 3oz. The support my family received in hospital was amazing and I wanted to raise funds for BLISS to help support the premature and special baby units and give many more tiny babies the best possible start in life.”
In the first weeks, months and year of Ruby’s life she defied all odds to become a strong and cheerful little girl who has recently taken her first steps.
Charlotte added: “I found the last few miles a huge struggle, but seeing my family cheering me on was a real emotional moment and gave me the push I needed to sprint to the finish line.”
