A grateful dad is tackling an epic Lake District adventure to raise funds for the Special Care Baby Unit at Furness General Hospital and say thank you for the care given to his daughter. 

Jonathan Sharp plans to complete the 24 Peaks Challenge – climbing some of the most famous Cumbrian mountains on a gruelling 28-mile route. 

He was inspired to support Bay Hospitals Charity by his daughter Emarni, who spent four weeks being cared for in the unit after being born seven weeks early. 

Emarni, now nearly two, is in perfect health thanks to the care she received at Furness General. 

Jonathan said: “Having Emarni in the Special Care Baby Unit wasn’t a nice time, but everyone there was brilliant and looked after her very well. 

“I wanted to do something to give something back and show appreciation for the care we received. 

“I’m really looking forward to taking on the challenge.” 

Jonathan is a regular fell-walker and is in training for his challenge through regular hikes and gym sessions as well as a trek up Ben Nevis. 

Bay Hospitals Charity funds the latest equipment for University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust to help make patients more comfortable and ensure they get the best possible care and treatment.   

Head of Charities and Fundraising Suzanne Lofthouse said: “It’s wonderful to hear that Emarni is in good health after being cared for in the Special Care Baby Unit. 

“The team in the SCBU do a remarkable job and provide such compassionate care to families as they go through the most difficult times of their lives. 

“We’d like to wish Jonathan the best of luck with his fundraising challenge, and thank him for the support he is giving to this very special unit.” 

You can donate to Jonathan’s fundraising total here.