Rachael McGrath is gearing up to run the Belfast Half Marathon in aid of TinyLife, we are a charity close to her heart that supports babies born too soon, too small, and too sick across Northern Ireland. Already raising over £500, Rachael is determined to contribute to the essential work that TinyLife does for families with premature infants.
Rachael, who was born prematurely at 29 weeks nearly 21 years ago, understands firsthand the challenges faced by families with premature babies. Reflecting on her motivation to run for TinyLife, she shared, “I am running the Belfast Half Marathon in September to raise money for TinyLife. I was born at 29 weeks, almost 21 years ago, and the importance of the work this charity does has not diminished since then. I personally feel that this is a charity that needs as much support as possible, as having a premature baby is one of the most difficult journeys to go through, yet it can be so rewarding with the help of this charity.”
Now in her final year studying Speech and Language Therapy at Ulster University, Rachael has learned more about the developmental impacts premature birth can have on a child. “From personal experience and further education, I realize how important charity work can be and would like to contribute to this charity by raising money,” she said.
While Rachael did not receive direct care from TinyLife, she acknowledges the charity’s significant role in supporting neonatal units, including providing incubators at the Ulster Hospital, where she was cared for after her birth. “I am very fortunate to not have any subsequent difficulties from being born premature. I have been able to live a very full life, from swimming competitively for many years to playing hockey and now running this half marathon! I am sure that none of this would have been possible without the care and continued support from the staff at that time,” she added.
To this day, Rachael and her family continue to show their gratitude to the neonatal ward staff by returning every Christmas with a small token of appreciation. “This work I know is supported by TinyLife and their team,” Rachael said, expressing her deep appreciation for the charity’s ongoing efforts.
As Rachael prepares for the upcoming race, she encourages the community to support her fundraising efforts. “Please donate and help support this vital cause,” she urges.
To support Rachael and contribute to TinyLife, donations can be made through her fundraising page.
Let’s help Rachael make a difference in the lives of babies born too soon, too small, and too sick in Northern Ireland.