Among those taking part were Morgan’s Army, who came together in memory and celebration of three-year-old Morgan Ridler from Gorseinon, who died last June of a very rare form of cancer.
The team of family and friends gathered ahead of what would have been Morgan’s fifth birthday this week to raise vital funds for one of the charities that supported Morgan and his close family during his treatment. In an incredible effort they would top the event’s fundraising leader board raising an incredible £4,640.
The Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales receives more than 900 admissions from the are covered by Abertawe Bro University Health Board each year.
As the only hospital of its kind in Wales, it also houses the country’s only specialised paediatric oncology unit, children’s critical care unit and is the only place in Wales where surgery can be performed on neonatal babies.
Five-year-old Olivia, from Swansea, has been receiving care at the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital since she was diagnosed with stage four high risk neuroblastoma when she way two. Olivia was the inspiration behind one of the animated superhero characters designed specifically for the Superhero 5K. Olivia attended the event yesterday alongside her family and friends.
Mum, Kelly said: “Olivia was delighted to be chosen as one of the superhero characters, she loved that she was a fairy princess. It was incredible day raising money for the charity that has supported us throughout Olivia’s diagnosis and treatment.
“We couldn’t be prouder to be involved, and to have all our family and friends as ‘Finch Force’ there to support us made it extra special.”
Sam Barnard, event manager for the Noah’s Ark Charity said:
“Seeing 1,300 people come together in superhero costumes to support Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity is truly heartwarming. The energy and enthusiasm has been phenomenal, and we are so proud of our superheroes for raising such an incredible amount of money.
“Those funds will now go on to ensure that 73,000 young patients a year get the best possible medical care and child-centred support, over and above what the NHS can provide alone.
“It’s thanks to our incredible community of supporters and fundraisers that we’re able to fund innovative medical equipment, provide emotional and practical support services to families, and make the hospital a less frightening place by sprinkling a little fun and happiness into hospital days.”
For more information about the event and the Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity, please visit www.noahsarkcharity.org.
[Lead image: Parea Photography]
