AN Exeter mum is planning to run 117 miles from North to South Devon for the Royal Devon and Exeter (RD&E) Charity’s Starfish Appeal, as a way to thank the hospital for the support her family has received.

Sarah-Jayne Tucker is currently running the Two Moors Way Coastal Challenge after her daughter was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, COL4a1, which has resulted in multiple admissions to the RD&E.

She started her challenge on May 22 and hopes it will take just five days.

Sarah-Jayne said: "Our journey with the RD&E started when my daughter was just 10 weeks old. My husband noticed little white discs in our daughter’s eyes, so we went straight to A&E and highlighted our concerns, hoping it was nothing. The eye consultant confirmed bilateral cataracts, booked her surgery for the following Monday and sent us straight to the paediatrician consultant for further review.

Each member of staff from that day has treated us with respect, truth, consideration and professionalism.

“Our daughter was diagnosed with COL4a1, a rare genetic condition, with just 250 cases documented worldwide.

Every day, ambulance ride and surgery since, the staff at the RD&E have been exceptional. Our family’s journey will be different but I feel assured and supported by the awesome teams that we have at the hospital.

“The least I can do is give something back; so I set myself this huge challenge covering 117miles over five days following the Two Moors Way.

I have fitted the training around my daughter’s nap times and pushed her up and down hills around Devon.

“If you can spare a few pennies please support the Starfish Appeal, every child deserves a friendly, colourful place to visit that makes them feel safe, welcome and want to smile."

Ian Roome, Head of Charity Fundraising for the RD&E Charity, said: “Sarah-Jayne is taking on an incredible challenge and we’re so grateful for the money she has raised for our Starfish Appeal so far – it really will make a huge difference to the thousands of children and young people who use our services each year.”

The Starfish Appeal is raising money to enhance children’s services and outpatient waiting areas at the hospital through creating a dedicated space for children while they wait for their appointment.

As well as providing a new engaging space, the Starfish Appeal will also fund activities, materials and equipment to support children through what is often an anxious time.

To donate to Sarah-Jayne’s fundraiser visit: https://rdecharity.enthuse.com/pf/sarahjaynestwomoorswaychallenge .