The grandmother of a seriously ill baby will take a ten mile sponsored walk in Richmond Park this Sunday in aid of St George’s Hospital in Tooting.

Kim Leaver, 49, of Horne Way, Putney, is raising money for high chairs, baby walkers and toys for the Pinckney ward, where little Liam McBride is being treated for Aplastic Anaemia.

Liam, who is only nine months old, contracted the rare bone marrow disease when he fell ill with Meningitis several months ago.

His parents, Laura and Christian, 27 and 30, spend every day at the hospital while he endures chemotherapy.

If the illness continues, he could need a bone marrow transplant, but no family members have proved a match.

The young baby is sorely missed by his older brother Oliver, two, who wants his little friend back home to play with.

His grandmother said: “The mums are stuck in a room with their children, so this equipment would give them a breather. It’s very hard. We’re just praying he’s going to be OK.”

To sponsor her, send a cheque to the Pinckney Ward, St George’s Hospital, Blackshaw Road, Tooting, SW17 0QT or to join in the walk call her on 07745780797.