Running for Everlyn

This weekend, Claire House parents are taking on the London Marathon in loving memory of their baby daughter.

Richard and Sarah Lamb are supporting their local children's hospice, which was there for them and their sons Will and Henry when Everlyn died aged seven days old.

“Claire House gave us the most precious memories as a family,” shares Rich.

“They cared for Everlyn perfectly. They cared for us and our sons. And they continue to support us. Everyone there has a special place in our hearts, we are eternally grateful."

Baby Everlyn was born seriously ill, having suffered a severe HIE brain injury. Devastatingly, doctors told her parents on Christmas Day 2019 there was nothing more they could do.

“We had to make that horrendous decision about where Everlyn was going to pass. The hospital put us in touch with Claire House,” shares Rich.

“Sarah’s an auxiliary nurse and had worked bank shifts at the hospice. And being from the area, we’d donated to its charity shops. But we’d never imagined how amazing Claire House would be with us as a family when we needed them.

“Straight away, the team came out and spoke to us. Everlyn was transferred to the hospice’s Butterfly Suite on December 27.

“For us, it meant we could be together – we held her, changed her and bathed her. Those were very special moments.

“The team were amazing with Will and Henry, playing games with them and making sure we were well fed as a family.

“I can’t imagine what we’d have done without Claire House.”

Everlyn’s memory lives on through the family’s fundraising, including their youngest daughter Polly (pictured with Sarah at the Claire Bear 3K).

To raise funds for the hospice, they did our charity's 3K in Birkenhead Park, as well as the Santa Dash last year.

Earlier this year, the couple completed the Liverpool Half Marathon in March, with Rich crossing the finish line at the Pier Head dressed as charity mascot, Claire Bear.

Next was the Mersey Tunnel 10K on April 12, with them now gearing up for the world's biggest annual one-day fundraising event this Sunday. And to make race day even more special, Rich will be running the 26.2 miles in full Claire Bear costume.

Balancing marathon training with full time work and three children has been no easy feat, but it’s worth every step.

“The Liverpool Half was really nice as people were shouting encouragement for Claire Bear!” smiles Rich, 41. “The weather was awful at the end, and I couldn’t see or hear too much in the suit, but it was well worth it!

“Sarah and I can’t wait to run the London Marathon in Everlyn’s memory. We’re aiming for our £5,500 fundraising target. Claire House supports families like ours and we want to give back in her name.”

Please join us in cheering the Lambs on – and if you can, support their fundraising as they take on London.

Photos: Family handout; @c.zack.h