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Name: Kevin
Why are you taking part in #challenge15? Theo James Eaton was born sleeping at 28 weeks on the 3rd January. Whilst this was a very upsetting time for us, we were given such amazing care by the nurses, midwives and consultants at Medway hospital, along with support provided by Sands, I felt it was important to give something back. Raising funds for this charity, being able to raise awareness and say thank you at the same time, felt like the perfect thing to do. If walking 15 miles can help fund important research and save a babies life, its a challenge I was very willing to take on.
What are you doing to complete your #challenge15? On the 24th March I plan to walk the 15 mile Eden Valley trail in just one day. This weekend has a special importance to our family as it falls on Theo's due date. It was therefore important to mark this occasion by doing something special in his memory. The route takes us from Edenbridge to Tonbridge, via Hever Castle and Penshurst Place, these are places we visit regularly with our daughter Brooke, and places we would most certainly have taken Theo, so it felt like the perfect challenge to complete.
What are your top tips for fundraising? As a family we have always tried to support causes close to our heart, ones we really believe in, but this is the first time I have actively raised funds for a charity myself. I think being honest and personal about the reason(s) you are fundraising and setting realistic goals is very important. It also helps to have amazing, supportive family and friends in your life who believe in what you are doing and are willing to help. Just as important is to thank those who do donate and I always thank individuals directly for anything they can give. To finish I would like to ask anyone reading this to post to please lend me your support on behalf of Sands, and donate what ever you can by clicking on the link below. Thank you!
Online donation page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/15milesfortheo