Marathon man dad takes on 58 miles of challenges in memory of his son
A dad from Chelmsford has raised over £5,300 for the baby bereavement suite at Broomfield Hospital, which gave the family precious time with their son, George, after he died.
Throughout this year Jack Baker has taken on four challenges in loving memory of his son, George, who was born in April this year. Following their loss, Jack and his wife, Tori, were cared for by the Blossom Suite baby bereavement team at Broomfield.
Jack – with the support of his brother, Harry - completed a 10k Tough Mudder, London’s Big Half Marathon, the Chelmsford Half Marathon and the Olympic Park Half Marathon. His training saw him complete over 475 miles, all of which he credited for helping him deal with the grief of losing his son.
Jack said: “The loss of George was a devastating time for Tori and I, and like many, we didn’t know that the Blossom Suite existed until we needed it. Following George’s birth, Midwives helped us to feel normal at a time when nothing felt normal or right. We’re so thankful for the care we received following George’s birth.
“Training for this year’s challenges has helped me mentally, but with the charity in mind, it gave me a focus to help other parents that will sadly need similar support in the future.”
Tabitha Stuthbridge, Specialist Bereavement Midwife, said “We are so grateful that Jack has chosen to support our bereaved families, the money raised will provide memory making and support materials. We couldn't offer what we do without the fundraising of others.
“This is also such an amazing legacy for baby George and helps to raise awareness of baby loss which in turn helps our families be more supported”.
In addition to Jack’s fundraising, his employer, the Ford Motor Company have chosen the Blossom Suite fund as their 2022 charity of choice for those wishing to donate their last hour’s pay of the year.