Martin's Mega Marathon for Max
Super Dad Martin is taking on the ultimate running challenge – the Loch Ness Marathon - in support of our Cardiac Care Ward at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow.
His son, Max, was born 6 years ago in Glasgow, after being antenatally diagnosed with a narrowed aorta, and the family are forever grateful to the Cardiology team for the care and support given to them during Max’s first few weeks of life.
Hear from Martin about Max’s time in hospital, and how training is going for the big day:
Max’s Hospital Journey
“Max was born on 3rd of April 2019. At his 20-week scan, we found out there was a complication with his heart – his aorta was too narrow – and were told it would require surgery.
“Although we had time to prepare, we also had a lot of time to worry.”
“He was born at the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow so he could receive immediate medication. On the day he was born, a big team were waiting to care for our wee boy. He was taken straight to the neonatal unit and had surgery at six days old, performed by the amazing Professor Mark Danton.
“Max is now doing brilliantly! He’s just as daft as any six-year-old boy, to be honest. Apart from the scar, which is fading, you wouldn’t know he’d had surgery.”
“We still go for regular check-ups in Glasgow to Outpatient Clinic 8. We used to go every few weeks, then every few months, and now we’re at 18-month intervals. He just had one recently which went really well!”
How your Donations Helped
“We were fortunate to get a room at Crossbasket House. We're from Lanarkshire – not miles away, but far enough that being nearby was a blessing. After surgery, he went to PICU, then to Ward 1E for about five weeks. That’s why I’m raising money specifically for the Cardiac Care ward.
“The charity-funded pull-down beds in Ward 1E were invaluable. One of us was able to stay with Max overnight, which made a world of difference. In NICU, we weren’t allowed to stay overnight, and having to leave him was the worst feeling.
“The murals in the corridors were lovely, especially on the way to surgery. There were PlayStations and Xboxes for the older kids which looked great, although Max was too young at the time. He loves all the wall displays now when we go in for check-ups. He especially likes the big activities and toys along the main atrium!”
Running to Give Back
“I chose to run the Loch Ness Marathon because I love Inverness. We’ve gone up there every New Year since Max was well enough to travel to bring in the bells, and it’s a special place for our family. When I saw that marathon, it just felt right.
“I wanted something that would be a real challenge, something I couldn’t just wing on the day. I’m not naturally fit or sporty, so this is a big deal for me. I didn’t want to just ask for money – I wanted to earn it.
“My hope is to reach £5,000, and with eight weeks to go, we’ve already raised £1,600! With the money I’m raising being related to heart health, a running event felt fitting. I’m trying to show people that anyone – no matter their fitness level – can take that first step to look after their heart.
“I’m filming my 12-week training programme on my YouTube channel, in preparation for the race itself, and have had special guests wishing me good luck and joining me on my runs, including the main man himself, Max!
“My advice for anyone thinking about taking on a challenge for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity is just go for it.”
“It’s good for your health, mind, and spirit, and the money you raise genuinely makes a difference. Those small comforts go a long way in a scary time.”