Daniel Rusby’s son Marshall was born prematurely at Heartlands Hospital in 2013 and weighed 600 grams with a large probability of not surviving his first 24hrs.

Since 2022, Daniel has completed 88 half marathons, 10 marathons and two ultra-marathons in a personal quest to raise £10,000 for the Heartlands Hospital Neonatal Unit.

Reflecting on the care his family received, Daniel said: “Marshall should not have made it past 24 hours, but thanks to the love, care and support of some of the most amazing human beings I’ve ever had the privilege to meet, my son’s life was saved on multiple occasions. He grew to 4lb and was breathing on his own in a cot, with discharge planned for the following week. Unfortunately, he developed a stomach infection and was unable to be moved for surgery. Within hours, the infection took Marshall back to heaven.”

Daniel remained at the hospital for four months, during which time staff became part of his family. He added: “I’m truly blessed to have had the support I did over those four months. I would have been lost without them.”

Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity, Heartlands Hospital Charity, Good Hope Hospital Charity and Solihull Hospital Charity have a variety of fundraising activities and events taking place throughout the year and are encouraging their supporters to ‘do more in 2026’ to help their local hospitals.

If your New Year’s resolution is to try something new or take on a challenge, the hospital charity has plenty of ideas to get you started. By taking part, you will be supporting patients and staff at your local hospitals.

There are several events to get involved with, from thrilling skydives and Sahara treks to Tough Mudders and marathons. The hospital charity is also holding social events, including Michelin-star meals, food mystery tours and pub quizzes throughout the year. Supporters can fundraise for a ward or department of their choice, with all funds raised going towards helping patients, their families and staff.

https://hospitalcharity.org/events

For those seeking a different kind of challenge, the charity is also offering its Sahara Trek 2027. Designed for adventurers of all kinds, from solo explorers to corporate teams, the trek begins in Marrakesh and includes two full days crossing the Sahara, camping beneath star-filled skies and enjoying authentic Berber food. Over six days, participants will immerse themselves in Berber culture, trek across ancient riverbeds and help transform the lives of patients cared for in the charity’s hospitals.

https://hospitalcharity.org/events/sahara-trek