Neil is running the London Marathon for ‘the ward that helped my boys’

This weekend, Neil from Stoneleigh, Surrey will take on the incredible challenge of running the London Marathon for a cause that means everything to his family.

Neil is raising money for Epsom and St Helier Hospitals Charity, with all the funds going to Casey Ward, the children’s ward at Epsom Hospital.

For Neil and his family, this ward holds a very special place in their hearts.

His two sons, Ralph (8) and George (3), were both born at Epsom Hospital. Since then, both boys have had to return to hospital at different times in their lives, spending days on Casey Ward receiving IV treatment for illnesses including pneumonia, chest infections and swollen lymph glands.

For any parent, those moments are frightening. Neil and his wife Lisa stayed by their bedsides, worried and hoping for good news.

“Each time we’ve been worried sick,” Neil said. “But the staff have always been incredible. The care they give, the reassurance they offer, and the way they look after the children and families is just amazing.”

“Casey Ward will always hold a special place in our hearts. The people who work there are very special and they work incredibly hard every day, often in difficult circumstances.”

Neil’s connection to the NHS goes beyond hospital visits. His mum, Lyn Carter, has worked for many years as a telephonist at St Helier Hospital. His late father John served the community as an ambulance technician with the former Surrey Ambulance Service. Neil himself is a custody sergeant with Surrey Police.

Running the London Marathon has always been a personal dream for Neil and we couldn’t be more grateful that he used his ballot place to support Casey Ward. All the funds Neil raises will go towards supporting the littlest patients, their families and the staff who care for them.

Neil is asking the community to help him give something back.

“Please, if you can, donate to this incredible cause. The staff are true heroes and the work they do helps so many children and families every day.”

Donate today at https://2026tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/neil-carter

Or if you are feeling inspired by Neil’s story, why not look at the range of events you can take part in and fundraise for the ward close to your own heart. Visit www.esthcharity.org.uk