'They didn't think she would survive' - west Wiltshire toddler walks 26 miles for hospital that saved her life
The 17-month-old's Mum says her daughter has "been through a lot this year".
Last updated 23rd Sep 2020
A west Wiltshire toddler has walked 26 miles this month, fundraising for the hospital which saved her life.
Avi Musgrove, from Melksham, contracted a severe bout of sepsis in January.
The child, who was just nine months at the time, had been swimming - her mother Emma saying that "she just got very poorly very quickly".
After Avi was rushed to the Royal United Hospital (RUH) in Bath, Emma feared the worst.
She told The Greatest Hits: "I didn't know what to think, it was 3 o'clock in the morning.
"Within 12 hours after finishing swimming - she was in resuscitation.
"They (hospital staff) came and said that they didn't think she would survive.
"But they didn't stop, they kept going and she got through it".
'It was just a way to give back'
Having also been born six weeks premature, it would be fair to say Avi has endured a challenging start to life.
Emma told us about the "amazing" care at The RUH, signing-up her daughter for the hospital's 'My Walk of Life Marathon' to thank its staff.
Participants aim to cover 26 miles in September, which the 17-month-old has already done.
The proceeds are being shared between the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and paediatric ward, where Avi spent most of her time in hospital.
Laura Piner, Events and Community Coordinator for the challenge, said: "Avi’s enthusiasm to explore, alongside Emma’s desire to help the hospital is inspiring and we are extremely thankful for their support".
So far, the toddler's Just Giving page has received over £1,000 - smashing her original target of £100.
Emma gave us her reaction to the donations: "I honestly can't believe she's raised so much ... it just hasn't stopped.
"It was just a way to give back really, for what they did for us".