Sara runs Hull 10K with the strength of her baby Betsie-Elle

Betsie-Elle was born on the 1st October 2024 and unfortunately on her discharged checks a nurse detected a heart murmur. At just one day old, she had a heart scan that confirmed every parents worst nightmare, Betsie-Elle had a congenital heart disease - pulmonary valve stenosis.

Both Sara and her husband were heartbroken and didn't know what the future held for their little girl. A few days later, they had an appointment at Hull Royal Infirmary and Betsie-Elle was diagnosed with severe pulmonary valve stenosis and a few weeks later would be told she needed heart surgery. At just 10 weeks and 3 days old, Betsie-Elle had successful heart surgery, showing successful results and her diagnosis was now moderate to mild. They were made aware she may need procedures in the future as well as understanding that this was a lifelong condition.

Throughout this time Sara was suffering with postnatal depression due to an emergency C-section and Betsie-Elle's condition. She was supported by her husband but couldn't seem to find a way out of feeling hopeless. It was through research that Sara found the Children's Heart Surgery Fund and knew that she wanted to focus on raising awareness. Sara said 

"Before pregnancy, I was a keen runner competing in the GNR and London Marathon on several occasions. I began running again after my 6-week check-up following my C-Section. Running helped with the postnatal depression, and I knew I had to be strong like our daughter. My husband and I are truly proud of our incredible daughter and the resilience she has shown from an early age. We know how one cheeky 8-month-old who we love dearly and count our lucky stars she is ours."