'I'm running for my unborn son with heart defect'

A father-to-be whose unborn son has been diagnosed with a heart defect is to take part in a running event for a children's charity.

Steve and his partner Ruth were told their boy had a severe congenital heart defect at her routine 20-week pregnancy scan, and he their son will need life saving open heart surgery when he is born.

Ruth described the diagnosis as "heart-breaking" but said the support they had received from the charity Tiny Tickers had helped them remain hopeful and prepared.

Steve is running in the City of Lincoln 10K on the 12 April, alongside a group of family and friends.

Ruth said: "At our 20 week scan we heard the words no parent ever wants to hear: there's a problem with your baby's heart."

The couple, who live in Lincoln, were referred to Leicester Royal Infirmary where the diagnosis was confirmed.

"We are so grateful that our baby's condition was picked up at our scan," said Ruth.

"It means he can get the best care straightaway."

Tiny Tickers is a national charity that aims to improve the early detection of congenital heart disease. They provide specialist training for sonographers who carry out pregnancy scans and places lifesaving equipment in maternity units across the UK.

"We want to raise awareness and funds so Tiny Tickers can continue giving other families the same lifeline they've given us," Steve said.

The running team has already raised more than £7,000 of their £10,000 target.

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