Nine years after his daughter's premature birth, a devoted father from North Wales has conquered the Chester Marathon to raise vital funds for the lifesaving service that brought her home.
A Premature Arrival and a Lifesaving Flight
George Owen's world changed when his daughter, Cadi, arrived unexpectedly seven weeks prematurely while the family was visiting relatives in Abergarenny. Weighing a fragile just 4lb, the newborn required immediate specialist care.
At only two days old, Cadi was flown by the Wales Air Ambulance from Abergavenny Hospital to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in North Wales, safely secured in a specialised incubator. "Watching her land was one of the most nerve-wracking moments of my life," George recalled.
He emphasised the critical role the service played: "The Wales Air Ambulance service was so important to us during a huge moment in our lives. Being able to transport Cadi in a specialised incubator allowed us to look after her closer to home during the first few weeks of her life."
Fulfilling a Nine-Year Pledge
George had vowed to show his gratitude and finally fulfilled that promise nearly a decade later by taking on the 26.2-mile challenge. "I said then that I wanted to do something to say thank you and it's only taken me nine years!" he joked.
The Chester Marathon was only his second competitive run, following an Anglesey 10k earlier in the year. Despite his limited experience with long-distance running, George completed the course in an impressive 3 hours, 52 minutes, and 37 seconds.
He was cheered on by his wife, Nik, son Riley, and his now healthy daughter Cadi, who completed the Chester Mini Marathon with her cousins Tilly and Olivia on the same day.
Smashing Fundraising Targets for a Vital Cause
George initially aimed to raise £500 for the all-Wales charity but spectacularly smashed that target, raising a total of £1,660. The funds will directly support the Wales Air Ambulance, which needs to raise £13 million annually to remain operational.
"I am overwhelmed with the support I have had and am incredibly grateful to everyone who donated," George said.
Elaine Orr, Wales Air Ambulance's regional fundraising manager, expressed her gratitude: "It is wonderful to hear that nine years on from the charity helping Cadi, George still wanted to raise funds... Fundraisers, like this one, will help us keep the 'Cadicopter' in the air."
The term "Cadicopter" is a special family name for the helicopters, coined by Cadi herself, who is now a "real character and fanatical gymnast" fully aware of her unique start in life.
George's incredible effort ensures that the vital service that helped his family can continue to save lives across Wales.
