A dad from Hull is cycling 1,000 miles to thank a neonatal unit for the care his daughters received after they were born prematurely.
James Turner’s daughter, Emilee, was born 13 weeks early in 2019, weighing just 1lb 11oz.
After three months in intensive care, and several major setbacks, she survived and is now thriving.
Sadly, Hope, who was born 17 weeks early in 2021, passed away after just one day.
They were cared for at the neonatal unit at Hull Women and Children’s Hospital.
James, 30, said the support they received during both experiences was “unbelievable,” and added the nurses even bought baby clothes and essentials out of their own pockets to help families in need.
Now the farmer, who lives at Rise, near Skirlaugh, is cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats to give back to the people he says he will be “forever grateful” to.
All funds raised will go directly to the neonatal unit to support their ongoing work with premature and critically ill babies.
James, who will be joined by two close friends, Dan Peacock and Spencer Cooper, said: “It will be just over 1,000 miles of cycling for a cause close to my heart.
“The staff at the hospital cared for both of my daughters, Emilee and Hope. They are outstanding and deserve the extra support this money will give.”
The trio plan to set off on June 28 and the trip is expected to take two weeks with some journeys of 100 miles a day.
James added: “Myself and family are forever grateful for the care that they gave to my children and this is my way of giving back.”
James has set up a GoFundMe page and already raised £1,000 of the £2,000 target as of Friday, June 13.
He is still looking for support with the logistics of the trip and is urging local people and businesses to get involved.
James said: “We are looking for more people to sponsor the event and help with getting a support vehicle.
“I have sponsorship forms and am aiming to raise £2,000 through the GoFundMe as well .
“The more awareness for the great work they do the better. They have changed my life.”
To help James, Dan and Spencer email: Jturner2612@gmail.com or call 0752-327-5103.
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