Oliver Wood, from Romsey, took on a marathon-length challenge throughout May, to complete 26 miles through a mix of walking, running, and cycling.
He decided to raise money for the charity, having been treated at Southampton Hospital for appendicitis. Oliver spent several days in the hospital last year and wanted to support the paediatrics team that had cared for him.
His mum, Charlotte, explained that he especially remembered the toys and activities available on the children’s ward.
She said: “He thought maybe if he raised some money, they could get some new stuff.
“When Oliver wanted to do fundraising, he said he wanted to help poorly people.”
Oliver Wood is raising money for Southampton Hospitals Charity (Image: Charlotte Wood)
Charlotte said the idea came after Oliver watched the London Marathon on TV and was inspired by his deputy headteacher completing the race.
She said: “There was a lot of talk about marathons and running. He probably would have given a marathon a go if I’d let him.”
At the time of writing, Oliver has completed 21 miles, with five left to finish by the end of the month.
The family have been tracking his progress on a blackboard, crossing off the miles one by one.
The challenge has taken the family around Romsey and on coastal walks during a holiday in Cornwall.
Charlotte said one of Oliver’s favourite parts of the walks has been stopping for an ice lolly afterwards at the Memorial Park in Romsey.
Oliver says he feels “good” knowing he has already raised more than £300 and hopes to raise even more before finishing the challenge.
Charlotte said Oliver has been really determined throughout the month and is happy he can help people.
Donations to Oliver’s fundraiser can be made through his JustGiving page.
Southampton Hospitals Charity raises funds to enhance patient care at University Hospital Southampton, going beyond what core NHS funding can provide to improve treatment, comfort and experience for patients and families.
The charity supports everything from life-changing medical equipment and pioneering research to projects that create more welcoming, therapeutic spaces for patients, visitors and staff. It also backs staff wellbeing initiatives and community health projects, aiming to improve health outcomes across Southampton and the wider region.
Through appeals, events and local fundraising, supporters help the charity deliver tangible improvements on wards, in specialist units and in outpatient areas.