Boy who survived after pulling out life support is dashing for Bluebell Wood

Six-year-old Jacob White has heart problems, chronic lung disease and development disorder Noonan syndrome.

He was born at 28 weeks - weighing just 2lbs - and doctors told parents Kerry and Jason that he would not survive long.

Kerry said: “He wasn’t breathing on his own. He was really poorly, and wouldn’t take any of his milk.

“He was on full life support for five months, but on New Year’s Day 2012 he pulled out his breathing tube and, incredibly, started breathing on his own.

“He was still really poorly, and had to have two more heart operations before he was eight months old.”

Jacob will be in his pushchair for the Colour Dash at Rother Valley Country Park on April 28. 

The family, including his brother Leo and sister Mia, plan to walk the 5km course - and get very messy at the colour stations.

The family, from Maltby, have been supported by the North Anston children’s hospice since 2012. 

Kerry said: “I can’t think of anything better than doing something fun and raising money for an amazing charity at the same time.

“When I found out that I was 16 weeks pregnant with my third baby, Mia, we started going to Bluebell Wood. 

“I needed to go for regular scans and antenatal appointments, and Bluebell Wood’s help meant that I could drop Jake off there first, knowing he was in safe hands.

“He loves it and is so happy there, and we love being there together as a family. His older brother Leo goes to the sibling group too.”

Tickets, including car parking, are £19 for adults, £10 for children aged five to 15, £2.50 for under-fours and £55 for a family of four.

Bluebell Wood senior events fundraiser Rachel Hodges said: “By signing up for the Colour Dash, people can help families like Jacob’s. 

“Our colourful course is completely family and wheelchair friendly, whether you want to walk, jog, run or wheel around.”