A dedicated Swansea runner and personal trainer is undertaking an extraordinary daily running challenge throughout January to support a vital local healthcare service. Bradley Roderick has committed to running one kilometre for each day of the month, creating a progressive challenge that will see him complete 31 kilometres on the final day.
Inspired by a Personal Connection
What began as a personal fitness goal transformed into a meaningful fundraising mission when Brad decided to dedicate his efforts to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Singleton Hospital. This decision was inspired by his rugby coach and friend, Nick White, and Nick's wife Elena, whose daughter Esme has received extensive specialist care at the unit.
Esme's Remarkable Journey
Esme was born at just 23 weeks gestation, weighing a mere 390 grams, and faced overwhelming challenges from her earliest moments. She was one of twins, though tragically her sister passed away just two days after birth. During her 231-day stay at Singleton NICU, Esme battled multiple serious conditions including chronic lung disease, heart injuries, and retinopathy of prematurity.
The expert neonatal team provided compassionate, round-the-clock care throughout her challenging journey. Today, Esme continues to demonstrate remarkable strength as she prepares for the next chapter of her life at home with her family.
Documenting the Challenge
Brad has been sharing his progress through daily video updates on his Instagram platform, offering followers an honest look at his journey while raising awareness about the vital work of the neonatal unit. His commitment extends beyond physical endurance to creating meaningful community engagement around the cause.
A Tribute to Resilience and Care
Brad's fundraising represents a dual tribute - both to Esme's extraordinary resilience and to the dedicated NICU staff who provide essential care to the most vulnerable babies when they need it most. He explained his motivation, saying: "I had a bit of a rough patch last year and he was there. And for him to come coaching and plan, prep, everything while what's going on behind closed doors with the family - it's a massive respect to him."
He added: "So I'm hoping any money that is raised will go and help other families like Nick and Elena's."
Community Impact and Support
The challenge has already generated significant support, with donations reaching £1,474 at the time of reporting. Funds raised will help Swansea Bay Health Charity continue supporting neonatal services, ensuring babies like Esme receive the best possible start in life.
Charity Response
Catrin Jones, digital fundraising and engagement officer at Swansea Bay Health Charity, expressed gratitude for Brad's efforts: "To have already raised £1,474 is amazing, and his daily running videos are truly inspiring. We're proud to be supporting his challenge by sharing his journey each day. Fundraisers like this one show the incredible impact of our community, and they remind us just how many families have been touched by the care provided at Singleton NICU."
Through his platform and persistent effort, Brad hopes to highlight the critical role Singleton NICU plays for families across Swansea Bay and beyond, while encouraging broader community support for the life-changing work made possible through charitable funding.
