Leicester couple remember ‘bubbly’ baby Harvey

A couple from Leicester are lacing up their trainers to take on the city’s Bubble Rush event, in memory of their son, Harvey.

On Saturday 22 September, Paul Smith and Charlotte Freer will be taking on the Leicester Bubble Rush at Abbey Park. The event is organised by Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People, the only hospice of its kind in the East Midlands.

The Leicestershire couple, who’ll be joined on the day by 30 friends and family with an age range of 18 months to 65 years, are taking part in the 5K fun run for Harvey, who lost his fight against SMA Type 1 in October last year.

Paul and Charlotte said: “Harvey was a bright, happy, beautiful boy who loved his bubble baths. He also loved attending Rainbows to use the Hydrotherapy Pool and Sensory Room.

“When Harvey lost his fight, the care and compassion from Rainbows is something we’ll never forget and we’ll always be grateful to them.”

The couple added: “The facilities at the hospice meant we could remain as a family whilst planning Harvey’s special service, guided and supported by the Rainbows team. The staff made the whole process easier and helped us make more special memories to treasure forever.

“Sadly there will always be a need for Rainbows but without funding they wouldn’t be able to continue to support and care for those children with life-limiting conditions or their families.”

Last year was the first time Bubble Rush was held in Leicester and more than 1,600 people took part, running through colourful stations of frothy bubbles.

Victoria Brunt, Events Coordinator at Rainbows, added: “We are so happy to have Charlotte, Paul, their friends and family taking part. We know they’ll have a great day and we’re looking forward to cheering them on. We hope their story will inspire others to take part.”

“The Bubble Rush is a 5k course of frothy fun. You don’t have to run. It’s not about speed or fitness, it’s about celebration, having fun with friends and family and raising a smile for Rainbows,” she added.

And it’s not too late to enter! Registration is £25 for over 16s, £7.50 for under 16s and under 3s go free. 

For more information and to register, visit www.rainbows.co.uk/bubble 

To sponsor Paul and Charlotte, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/harveysteam