Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity is calling on its supporters to get involved in its much-anticipated second annual 'Fun Family 5'.

Taking place in Sutton Park on Saturday 16 June, the eventful sponsored 5K walk will raise vital funds for sick children, and last year’s event saw over 400 participants collect nearly £20,000.

One of the first to put their name down for this year’s event is Cheryl Beardmore, 42, and her husband Mark, 47. Since July, their three-year-old son Oscar has come to know Birmingham Children’s Hospital all too well. He has undergone 13 rounds of chemotherapy in his battle against rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of cancer. Cheryl said:

“We are indebted to Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity. There aren't enough words to say how we feel and how grateful we are to the hospital. Their work is amazing. It's a fantastic oncology ward and clinic. We've got so much thanks for them and everything they've done for us.”

Along with Oscar’s cousins Isla, Madison, Flyn and Kye, and grandmother Diane, the Beardmore family will be raising funds to show their gratitude to the doctors, nurses and support staff at Birmingham Children’s Hospital who have cared for them since Oscar was diagnosed with the disease.Cheryl added:

“We did the Fun Family 5 last year and Oscar was in hospital up until the evening before, but on the day he walked the 5k himself along with family and friends. We managed to raise over £5,000 for the Oncology ward.”

Miranda Williams, Public Fundraising Manager at Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, added:

“We’re really excited to welcome supporters for the second year to our 5km fundraising walk, 'Fun Family 5'. We love seeing families, friends and patients coming together to take on the course, collect their medals and enjoy some family time.

"During its first year in 2017, our amazing supporters raised almost £20,000 for the sick kids like Oscar who are in our care, and we know this year will be bigger and better – we can’t wait!”

The event promises to be fun for all ages, with activity zones featuring a circus skills workshop, face painters, a bouncy castle, arts and crafts, sporting entertainment and live music. 

Families are encouraged to bring a picnic or enjoy one of the food stalls on offer after conquering the 5km walk around one of Birmingham’s most picturesque parks. 

To sign up for the Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity Fun Family 5 and receive a fundraising pack, visit the Birmingham Children's Hospital website.