An inspirational Glasgow man who had a pacemaker fitted at just five days old is gearing up for a half marathon to raise money for charity.
Ross Falconer, 23, was born with Congenital Heart Block and spent much of his childhood in and out of hospital. He has had a further five pacemaker operations during his lifetime, with his most recent operation being in 2022.
The Glasgow lad and his family received invaluable support from Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, who help care for sick children and their loved ones while they are in hospital, with Ross now preparing to run a 13.1 mile half marathon to raise funds for the unit that saved his life.
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Ross told the Daily Record: “Doctors first noticed something was wrong with me when my mum went for her 30-week scan. She was diagnosed with neonatal lupus, which is what caused me to have a congenital heart block.
“I also had liver problems, blood problems and two hernias, so I had quite a lot going on when I came into the world.
“Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity has always been there for me. All the nurses give you such a helping hand.
“When you’re young and sick and there is so much going on, they are always there with a smile and toys to distract you for a while.
“They also really helped my family. When I was going for operations, they would look after my sisters and take care of my mum and dad.”
The young engineer will challenge his fitness while raising cash for the hospital after signing up for the Great Scottish Run which takes place on October 8.
Ross added: “After my last operation I really wanted to do something to challenge myself.
“A few family members have done half marathons and marathons for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, so I wanted to do one myself as a way of giving back.”
Ross told how he has been overwhelmed with support so far.
“The response has been crazy so far”, he continued.
“It’s not often you look at yourself as inspirational, but when I see comments calling me that it’s really nice. I just want to raise as much as I can for a great charity.”
You can donate to Ross's fundraiser here.
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