My Story

On the 28th October 2022 my life changed forever when my wife gave birth to our beautiful first child. Hudson Alfie Graves was born 6 pounds 7 ounces with mum and baby healthy and well. Hudson wasn't able to register a response when the nurse completed the initial hearing test, which is completed on all babies, we were told this was pretty common and not to worry, he would be tested again next week. Hudson attempted this test twice more, again without registering an appropriate response and so we were asked to take him for an ABR test. Hudson wasn't able to register a response for this test and this was when we were given the news that Hudson has long-term profound hearing loss in both ears. 

With him being a responsive baby, this news came as a great shock to us both and was one the of most difficult moments of our lives. Since we have had the news, the NHS and the National Deaf Children's Society have been fantastic in their support for Hudson and ourselves. 

Within 3 months, Hudson was fitted with hearing aids, alongside this we have been on a free 6 week sign language. Hudson will also have a Teacher of the Deaf throughout his entire time at school, who will champion him and his needs. Debra has been instrumental in supporting us, providing us with resources and being our voice of reason/support. 

Without the charity, I'm not sure what we would have done. It was incredibly scary at first, but we feel with the support from the charity, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel for Hudson and we can see a real future for him.  Hudson is currently going through the assessment process for cochlear implants and we hope they will be fitted around his first birthday! 

So because of all of this I have decided to put my feet where my mouth is and run the London Marathon to raise money for this amazing charity. My fitness is somewhat questionable at present (I'm blaming Hudson for this) but I looking forward to putting in the hard work and  pounding the pavement in order to raise awareness/money for similar children in Hudson's position who will really benefit from this special charity. 

From now until race day, I will be putting on fundraising activities within my local and school community. These include sponsored walks, runs, silences (only sign language allowed), cake sales, non-uniforms etc. So keep an eye out and get involved!

Anything you can donate will really help.

Thank you 

Jack and Hudson :)