A four-strong cohort of clinicians from Helen & Douglas House will compete in the Oxford Half Marathon on October 11, completing the 13.1-mile course while wearing elaborate bed costumes.

Their fundraising target stands at £200,000, with proceeds designated for maintaining hospice facilities.

The sum would cover operational costs for a single hospice bed throughout the year, enabling continuous specialist care for young patients facing severe health challenges and their relatives.

Medical Director Dr Emily Harrop, who will participate in the run, emphasised the significance of the unusual attire choice, noting that while observers may find the outfits amusing, the underlying purpose carries substantial weight.

Each facility bed guarantees individual medical attention for children experiencing serious illness, alongside invaluable opportunities for parents to focus on their parental roles rather than medical duties.

The hospice delivers daily support that transforms family dynamics, allowing caregivers moments of rest while enabling siblings to bond and children to create enduring memories.

The combined efforts of these runners aim to guarantee that local families can depend on such essential services when circumstances demand it most.

Helen & Douglas House serves as the primary charity partner for the event, with over 300 participants representing the organisation on race day.

Annually, each bed accommodates approximately 104 separate admissions, translating to more than 300 nights of dedicated care delivery.

The charity’s craft volunteers have manufactured portable sleeping arrangements for the runners, incorporating pillows, duvets, and nightcaps.

Families connected to the hospice’s services have joined the fundraising initiative.

Belle James from Wallingford will line up at the start, motivated by her son Rory’s regular visits.

The young boy lives with a rare and life-limiting form of epilepsy that requires ongoing specialist support.

The hospice provides Rory with musical activities, play opportunities, and consistent care within a welcoming environment where the family feels secure and able to maintain their normal routines.

James described the upcoming challenge as physically demanding but expressed her commitment to honouring the staff who consistently support her son.