80-year-old from Oxfordshire will run five miles raising money for the Children's Hospital
The five-mile run will be officially started by Eileen and three-year-old Joey Waller, who’s a patient at the Children’s Hospital
An 80-year-old from Oxfordshire will be the oldest participant in the OX5 run to raise money for the Children's Hospital at Blenheim Palace.
The annual OX5 RUN, organised by Oxford Hospitals Charity has been taking place for 24 years, helping to make time in hospital that little bit easier for local children and their families.
Eileen Williams, 80 years old, a former community health visitor, has been a regular at the OX5 for many years after taking up running when she was 59.
Ms Williams said: “I worked with children for children for 49 years and once I retired, I felt like I still wanted to make a small contribution.”
She also says. “I will be running with my dog, Buddie, so that will be quite fun because it’s fun having someone beside me.”
Lorna Eaton, Supporter Care Officer from the Charity said, “Eileen is such an inspiration, her energy and enthusiasm is infectious – we wish her the happiest of birthdays.”
This year, the five-mile run will be officially started by Eileen and three-year-old Joey Waller.
Joey, from Cowley, has spent much of his life being cared for in the hospital following surgery for a brain tumour at the end of 2023.
He uses a feeding tube and has oxygen at night and also has balance issues, so spends a lot of time receiving care at the hospital.
His mum, Faye Waller, said: “The hospital has been like a second home to us. It’s a very special place and the staff and surroundings are excellent. We know the charity plays a really big part by funding so much specialist medical equipment and also creating a more welcoming hospital environment with lots of activities for the children.
“We’ve also got to know some of the charity team well as they have a hub at the entrance. They give us such a welcome every time we walk through the hospital doors, and are incredibly kind when times have been tough. They have honestly made such a difference to our hospital experience.
“So, when we heard about the OX5 RUN I decided to take myself totally out of my comfort zone and sign up with some family and friends. We were then asked if Joey would help set the runners off at the start, by sounding the starter horn, and are really proud that he is doing this. It’s very special.”