FIVE MINUTES WITH...Fraser Lamb - a Doncaster disabled man who is taking on a 2,021 mile wheelchair challenge

Fraser Lamb, aged 28, was born with myelomeningocele, the most severe type of spina bifida.

This occurs when a baby’s spine and spinal cord do not develop properly in the womb, causing a gap in the spine.

The condition leaves tissue exposed on the baby’s back and, without the protective covering of skin, the spinal cord becomes further damaged with a very high risk of infection.

He was immediately admitted to Sheffield Children’s for treatment.

Three weeks later, Fraser developed hyd rocephalus, which is the build-up of fluid on the brain.

The condition required surgery and the insertion of a shunt to drain the fluid.

Fraser has had to return to Sheffield Children’s several times due to blockages, including requiring emergency life-saving surgery in 2004, when Fraser was just 12-years -old.

Fraser’s mum Jan Lamb remembers: “From his first admission to his last, Fraser was very lucky to have such excellent care.

"The medical staff at Sheffield Children’s were some of the most caring and compassionate doctors we have ever met, they were second-to-none.”

It was his care that prompted Fraser to take on this ambitious challenge, which he has affectionally nicknamed ‘Roll on 2021’.

Fraser explains: “This challenge is all about trying to give something back to Sheffield

Children’s and the staff that have done, and continue to do, so much for so many children and their families.

“During the first lockdown, I went out every day to get some exercise and as a family, we were going outside to ‘Clap for Carers’ every week.

"But I wanted to show my support for the NHS in a more practical way and as Sheffield Children’s will always have a special place in my heart, it was the obvious choice.”

Fraser’s challenge to cover 2,021 miles in 2021 to raise money for The Children’s Hospital Charity was soon born.

He has since amassed almost 400 miles and raised more than £2,400.

Fraser adds: “When I first started, I couldn’t go a mile without needing a rest.

"I gradually built it up to three a day and I’m currently doing six miles a day.

"My plan is to do most of the distance around my local area, but in the summer months I’m hoping to venture to some new places - like everyone else!”

Fraser hopes to raise £2 a mile, or £4,042 over th e course of the year.

He continues: “At the moment, the fundraising target looks very daunting but I’m hopeful we’ll be able to achieve it as the mileage grows.”

Lucy Rathbone, Regional Fundraising Officer at The Children’s Hospital Charity added: “Hearing Fraser’s story was incredibly inspiring, we are very grateful that he has chosen to give back to Sheffield Children’s with his 2,021 miles in 2021 challenge.

“Sheffield Children’s has a thriving specialist centre and continues to look after patients from across the region with spina bifida, treating babies early and continuing to support them throughout their childhood.

“The amount Fraser has raised and the distance he has covered so far has been nothing short of remarkable.

" We would like to say a huge thank you to him and everyone who has supported his challenge so far.”

To support Fraser in his ‘Roll on 2021 challenge, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/fraser-lamb1

*The Children’s Hospital Charity helps make Sheffield Children’s Hospital even better, by funding projects that are over and above the standard NHS provision. Money raised through donations funds four key areas; medical equipment, research, new facilities and improvements to the environment.

In July 2018, the ‘Building a Better Future’ appeal was launched to raise £14.25million to expand the Emergency Department, build a brand-new Helipad and redevelop the Cancer and Leukaemia Ward.

Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust is one of only three dedicated children’s hospital trusts in the UK and provides integrated healthcare for children and young people, including community and mental health care as well as acute and specialist services.

They see children from birth to 16 in most cases, and in some cases up to 18.

They provide a full range of services for residents of Sheffield and South Yorkshire as well as specialised services for patients from across the United Kingdom.

The hospital employs more than 3,000 people. Visit: www.tchc.org.uk/appeal/

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a pap er. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.