16-year-old does OX5 run to thank children's hospital after 105-day stay
George Higginson and his mum celebrate his recovery with a charity run at Blenheim Palace
A 16-year-old from Didcot is participating in the OX5 run at Blenheim Palace as gesture of thanks to the Oxford Children’s Hospital for the critical care he received.
In November 2024, George Higginson suffered a ruptured pancreas after a basketball accident, and had a stay of 15 weeks at the Oxford Children's Hospital, supported by a local charity that also hosts the OX5 run.
His mum, Alison Walters, saw a poster for the event during their time in hospital and took part last year, motivated by the charity's support.
Alison said, “I knew about the OX5 run, having taken part over 10 years ago, but it was only during our lengthy hospital stay that I truly realised how this event plays such a part in what the charity can do for patients and staff."
"As a family, we directly benefited from the program of support that the charity offers, and this felt like a great way of showing our support."
After his discharge in March 2025, George supported Alison as she completed the run, and today, he joins her and other participants in the five-mile event.
George has made significant strides in his recovery, returning to play in his National League Basketball team, and is set to complete the run with Alison, acknowledging the care that supported his recovery.
Alison added: “We spent a lot of time in the family room on Mel’s Ward, which the charity supports, and we loved popping down to the Charity Hub to see Jamie and the team. It really helped us shape some normality in what is an extremely unpredictable time.”
Reflecting on his rehabilitation, George said, “I wouldn’t be where I am today with the freedom to live my life in the way I do, without the support of the many people who contributed to getting me better.”