Fife family raise funds in memory of James

The baby, who spent his short life in the care of Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children, sadly lost his struggle for life earlier this year.

Little James, who was born on January 30, had two rare heart conditions, and despite two major operations, he passed away less than a month later, on February 23.

James’s uncle, Paul Watson, rallied 27 family members and friends to take on a cycle challenge around Loch Leven Heritage Trail in Kinross on Saturday, September 1 to raise funds for the hospital in Glasgow, which cared for James.

Between the full team, they completed a total of 39 laps of the 13 mile circuit around the loch – more than 500 miles in total – cheered on by many more family and friends.

So far, their efforts have raised more than £1,000 with further funding still coming in with a hope they might reach a final figure of £1500.

“Not bad from an original target of £500 that I had hoped for on my JustGiving page” said Paul.

Paul (48), who lives in Glenrothes, said: “Wee James passed away at just 24 days old, which was absolutely devastating for the whole family, especially his poor mum and dad. We couldn’t believe it, as he’d shown promising signs after he was born.

“It was a really difficult time, but that was spent under the care of the wonderful staff at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

“The consultant, surgeons and nurses who looked after and fought for James – as well as providing much needed comfort to his parents through the hardest times – was just outstanding and I wanted to do something to say thank you for all that was done.

“The money we raise will go to Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, and we know it will go towards really vital support services, medical research and equipment to help the other young patients at the hospital, as well as their families.”