A five-year-old boy will be the guest of honour at the upcoming Santa Dash after undergoing open heart surgery.
The festive event takes place on Sunday, December 3 2023, and is often said to be the city’s official kick-start to Christmas. Beginning at 9.30am at the Pier Head, the run will see the waterfront be transformed into a sea of thousands of red, blue and mini Santas - as it does annually for the event.
Alder Hey Children’s Charity is the official partner for the BTR Liverpool Santa Dash and representing the charity is St Helens schoolboy Lincoln. The Parish Church of England Primary School pupil was born with a “complex” condition and has been under the hospital’s care since birth.
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Lincoln’s mum Tanya said: “Lincoln has a complex Congenital Heart Defect and Heterotaxy Syndrome RAI and has been under Alder Hey’s care from day one. Lincoln is just the happiest boy and is always smiling. He’s also very cheeky, loving, and caring, with an amazing personality. He is finally in a good place – and even excited when he knows he's coming to Alder Hey again.
“We’ve had an amazing experience with Alder Hey, especially the cardiac team and ward staff who have looked after him during his numerous stays and appointments so far. We can’t thank them enough for the time they have given us with him, with hopefully many more to come.”
Last year 5,500 dashing Santas took part in the day’s two festive fun run events. With two weeks to go, 4,000 Santas have already signed up - including Lincoln who will be taking part in the 1K mini dash and supported by Alder Hey mascot Oli the Elephant. Lincoln will be joined by mum Tanya, dad Mathew and brothers Deacon, Mac and Jaxon.
Funds raised by Alder Hey through the event will support its work to transform young lives through state-of-the-art equipment, facilities, and medical research.
Adam Dixon, running and challenge manager at Alder Hey Children’s Charity, added: “Alder Hey is close to the heart of many Santa Dash participants with most local families having a connection to our hospital. Funds raised will help benefit the 330,000 patients and families we treat at Alder Hey every single year.”
Click here to read more about the Santa Dash route and how to get involved.
