After watching her mum take on the Great North Run last year to raise funds for the cystic fibrosis team who have supported her since she was a baby, Rose Durant has been inspired to do the same.
Following in her mother’s footsteps, the seven-year-old is taking on the Mini Great North Run this weekend to raise money for the team at The James Cook University Hospital through Our Hospitals Charity.
Rose, from Billingham, was born very poorly due to complications caused by her cystic fibrosis.
This included being born with a perforated bowel, which meant she required emergency surgery when she was just 12 hours old.
After being transferred to the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle, tests confirmed she had cystic fibrosis when she was around a week old.
Since then, she has been cared for by James Cook’s cystic fibrosis team.
Her mum, Kim Cleaver, said: “This was very traumatic for us, especially as we did not know Rose had any complications until shortly after she was born. We had no knowledge of cystic fibrosis and were very scared of what the future held.”
Rose did not have the easiest start in life and, over the years, has required a range of treatments and hospital admissions.
Giving back – running shoes at the ready
Although hospital visits can sometimes be difficult for her, the cystic fibrosis team at James Cook have been a constant source of support.
Kim added: “Rose is thankfully benefiting from new medication and is very well at present. The cystic fibrosis team know how best to work and reassure her and us.
“Last year when I ran the half marathon Rose came to watch, she enjoyed it and said she wanted to do it this year.”
Rose’s 5-year-old cousin, Harry, will be joining her for the challenge. The pair are both very excited and plan to dress up as superheroes on the day.
Kim added: “We would just like to say a massive thank you to the CF team for all their support over the years. They have made difficult times easier, often going above and beyond for us. We know Rose would not be as well as she is without them.”
Inspiring others
Wishing Rose good luck, physiotherapist Claire Lord said: “We couldn’t be prouder of what you are doing.
Sponsoring Rose and Harry
The money Rose raises will go back into the cystic fibrosis team to help other children with the genetic condition in our area.
Lisa Meehan, from Our Hospitals Charity, added: “We are so grateful for all the fundraising Rose and her family have done for our Middlesbrough teams. Your efforts will make a huge difference to children navigating their cystic fibrosis through from diagnosis to treatment.
“If anyone would like to donate, please do so via Rose’s JustGiving page, no matter how big or small.”