Great Bristol Run 2025: "Bristol Children's Hospital cared for me so that today I can do the 2.5k run!"

Nine-year-old Reuben Tushingham was born with talipes (also known as club foot), a condition where the Achilles tendon (the large tendon at the back of the ankle) is too short and causes either or both feet to turn in and under.

His family learnt about the condition at the 20-week scan and were advised it wouldn’t be mild.

David Tushingham, Reuben’s father, said: “Right from soon after he was born, Bristol Children’s Hospital has been there for us at every stage.

“Not only did they take the time to make sure we understood everything that was happening throughout Reuben’s treatment, but they also made sure we felt emotionally supported. Everyone was so warm and accommodating, which makes such a difference.”

Following extensive treatment from Bristol Children’s Hospital, Reuben is now able to walk, play football, ride his bike, and take part at this year’s 2.5k Junior event (for those aged 9-15 years) at the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run.

He will be running alongside his friends and family as part of a team of 15 young runners at the Junior and Mini event to raise money for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity.

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The team includes Rueben’s five-year-old sister, Iona, who will be joining the 1.5k Mini even for runners aged 3-8 year-old.

David commented: “When Reuben was born we didn’t know what to expect, so to see him take part in this run makes us beyond delighted. The Junior & Mini event gives us a chance to give something back to the hospital which works so hard to support children and their families who are facing all kinds of significant challenges.”

Reuben added: “Bristol Children’s Hospital cared for me so that today I can do runs like this one!

“They gave me boots and a bar, operated on my feet, gave me new splints to wear and plaster casts when I needed them. They taught me stretches that I need to do as I grow.

“They made me feel safe and they cheered me on through my treatment. Because of their kindness and hard work, I can play football with my friends and ride my bike!”

Last year, Reuben took part in the Family Run and raised more than £1,000 for Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal - far outstripping his initial goal of £50.

He aims to do even better in 2025 and has taken part in his local parkrun at Horfield Common with his friends to prepare for the event.

David added: “Reuben also plays football with his team Ashley Down FC which is an important part of most weekends now. His feet can get tired quite quickly, so we just take things at his pace to make sure he feels comfortable.

“Iona is training alongside Reuben and is keen to cross the finish line faster than she did at the Family Run last year!”

To support Reuben and his team, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/david-tushingham-1736190334368

To enter the Junior & Mini event visit: www.greatrun.org/events/junior-mini-great-bristol-run

Mini entrants must run with a parent or carer, while junior entrants do not need to be accompanied by an adult.