Dad completes 46th half marathon dressed as Superman

A father who completed the last of 46 half marathons dressed as Superman in his son’s memory says he feels “absolutely amazing”.

Thomas Young’s son Jaxon died in May 2023 aged six weeks while being treated in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at St Michael’s Hospital in Bristol.

Mr Young set out to complete 46 half marathons in 46 weeks in 2023 in Jaxon’s memory and raised more than £9,000 in the process.

After finishing his last half-marathon on Tuesday outside the hospital where his son was being cared for, Mr Young told the BBC that “words can’t describe it”.

Mr Young ran over 600 miles to raise funds for Cots for Tots, the NICU charity.

The hospital’s NICU Neonatal Intensive Care Unit cares for more than 800 babies a year, from those born as early as 23 weeks to babies who require life-saving treatment at birth.

Mr Young completed the half marathon on St Michael’s Hill – one of the steepest roads in Bristol.

He said: “I didn’t think I would get to this point.

“This last part was the one that played in my mind the most, but with everyone’s support it helped me climb this dreaded hill.

“Words can’t describe it. All the money raised will help everyone who needs Cots for Tots. Whether it was expected or unexpected, the money will go a long way.”

He added that he will “rest for a while” and “maybe think about another challenge” to raise money.

Kate Jones, senior community fundraising manager at Tots for Cots, said: “It was so emotional.

“Tom obviously started his challenge 46 weeks ago, it’s been amazing to follow him on this journey.

“It’s incredible to see him make his last 46th round today. It is amazing”.

Emma Stuart, senior nurse at St Michael’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, said: “It’s going to go massively.

“Anything is very helpful. It will help parents make their journey a little easier.”