Chris and Lorraine Blackburn always remember their son Owen with an annual charity walk.
And this year the aim is to get seven phototherapy lamps for the unit that cares for premature babies.
At just 26 weeks old, Owen was the first baby to be born at Queen Alexandra Hospital’s then new neo-natal unit in June 2009.
Little Owen weighed just 1lb 10oz and had been making steady progress after being diagnosed with a heart problem.
The tot was transferred to two Southampton hospitals, to be treated for an eye disease and artery problems.
But sadly he died in September 2009.
Lorraine, 29, is grateful to QA for giving her and her husband three precious months with their son.
Since then, the couple have organised an annual 20-mile walk around Portsmouth to raise money for the unit.
And the pair are inviting as many people as possible to come along and join them.
Lorraine, of Gordon Road, Waterlooville, said: ‘This will be our fourth year, so we should be professionals at organising it.
‘The route will be the same as last year.
‘We want to raise £16,500 so we can get seven phototherapy lights. These help babies that have jaundice.
‘We’ll also be raising money for Southampton as well, as the unit there takes in babies from the area.’
So far 99 people have already signed up for the walk. But there’s room for more – and walkers are being encouraged to join.
Last year 120 people took part – a number the Blackburns hope to match or beat.
‘If anyone wants to take part, then they should contact me,’ added Lorraine.
‘All they need to do is tell us they’re coming, then raise money with the help of family and friends.’
Over the years, the family has donated muslin squares, nappies, bedsheets and a flat screen TV for the neo-natal unit.
Lorraine is also a representative of neo-natal charity Ickle Pickles, which supports units across the country.
Some walkers will be wearing the T-shirt to raise awareness of the charity.
This year’s walk takes place on Saturday, March 2, at 9am.
People are being asked to meet outside QA at 8.15am so they can register.
The walk will start and finish at the hospital.
To find out more, call Lorraine on 07977 480216.
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