A trio of runners are training for a marathon in October on one of the most beautiful routes in the world, raising money for the N&N Hospitals Charity and a department close to their heart.

Elliott Catchpole, from Attleborough, and friends James Flannigan and Jonathan Lee will take part in the Loch Ness Marathon on October 3 2021, supporting the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital.

Elliott said: “My son, Oscar, has a rare and as yet un-named genetic disorder which means he has severe and complex medical needs. One aspect of this condition is that Oscar has extremely dangerous epileptic seizures, which have the potential to be life-threatening if not brought under control.

“The doctors, nurses and all the other carers at the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital have, on numerous occasions, provided life-saving care for Oscar during his most dangerous seizure events.

“Oscar’s seizures began at just six months old and since then, he has not gone longer than 12 weeks without a seizure event. Oscar is now three years old and still fighting through all the challenges he faces, thanks to his own incredible strength and the amazing care from the Jenny Lind team.

“The money raised will be used to purchase medical equipment that will provide potentially life-saving support to not only Oscar, but all the countless other children who come under their care and protection.”

The Loch Ness Marathon follows a spectacular route alongside Loch Ness in the Highlands of Scotland – one of the world’s best known destinations with breathtaking scenery.

The marathon begins in moorland and continues through stunning scenery along the shores of Loch Ness, across the River Ness to finish in the Highland capital of Inverness

You can support Elliott, James and Jonathan via their fundraising page: http://www.justgiving.com/Elliott-Catchpole

Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital Matron Teresa Miles said: “It is lovely to hear such wonderful feedback from Elliott and his family about the care Oscar has received.

“We are so grateful for this support and we wish Elliott, James and Jonathan all the best in their training and hope they have a wonderful marathon around Loch Ness.

“It’s donations like these which enable us to provide so many extras which make a huge difference to our youngest patients.”

For more information about the N&N Hospitals Charity and how you can support us, go to https://nnhospitalscharity.org.uk/