A CARING father is lacing up his running shoes for the eight time to thank Oxford Children's Hospital staff who cared for his young daughter when she was treated for a rare form of cancer as a toddler.

Phil Rose, who lives in Abingdon, first got involved in the OX5 Run in 2013, after he received the heartbreaking news that his two-year-old was diagnosed with cancer after doctors found a stomach tumour.

Maizie, who is now aged ten, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma – a rare childhood cancer that affects cells in the chest and stomach.

She underwent treatment on Kamran’s Ward at the Oxford Children’s Hospital where Mr Rose praised the care and compassion that the whole family received.

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"Even after all this time we feel so lucky to have the Oxford Children’s Hospital on our doorstep.

"From the moment we walked into the ward, we felt that we were in safe hands and the care we received was just amazing.

"As a family we wanted to do something and give back to the hospital and the OX5 Run is just the way to do this."

Over the last eight years, Mr Rose has entered Team Maizie in the annual fun run, which is made up of a dedicated group of family and friends, who have raised thousands for the hospital Charity.

The donations have helped fund parental accommodation and 'state of the art' monitoring equipment for every child in the hospital.

The grateful father added: "We have seen first-hand the difference that this run makes to the hospital, and so if you are a walker, a first time runner or seasoned marathon runner, I urge you to get involved and help this special hospital.

"You never know when you or someone close to you will need it."

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The Oxford Mail OX5 Run, which is sponsored by local recruitment agency, Allen Associates, has taken place every year since 2002, raising more than £1 million since it started to provide extra support for local children in hospital.

Entry to the fun run costs just £10 per person aged 16 and above and £5 per child.

This year's event, which will take place on Sunday, March 28, will be virtual, with runners and walkers asked to complete five miles close to their homes.

Joe Baker, from Oxford Children’s Hospital Charity, commented: “We are delighted that Phil and Team Maizie are joining us again for our virtual fun run.

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"Although things are a little different this year, the premise of the run is still the same with the community and thanking the hospital at its heart.

"Every penny raised through this run helps make a difference to the thousands of patients and their families who use children’s services across Oxfordshire.

"If you are a casual walker or dedicated runner, this event is a perfect way to get involved and support your local children’s hospital."

To enter the run individually or as part of a team visit www.hospitalcharity.co.uk/ox5run

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