A MIDWIFE will trek a kilometre for every year of her life to honour two premature babies and raise cash for children’s care at Basildon Hospital.

To mark her 50th birthday, Lisette Harris is taking part in a 50k sponsored walk, following the Thames through London.

She will walk in honour of Edward Pepper and Ella-Mae Coveney who were born prematurely at 28 and 29 weeks at Basildon Hospital.

The midwife, who is based at the hospital, supported both babies’ mums, including helping them to eventually breastfeed their children.

She is also hoping to raise cash for the hospital’s Polly Parrot appeal, which aims to raise £250,000 to provide specialist equipment in the paediatric ward and neonatal intensive care unit.

Lisette said: “In my role as a specialist midwife for infant feeding, I spend many hours in both of these departments, caring for patients and supporting families.”

Speaking about the two babies, she said: “The mums were incredibly strong and determined young women who helped each other through the difficult patches.

“Establishing breastfeeding when your baby is poorly can be quite a challenge and it was wonderful to be able to support them and see results.”

Lisette, along with colleague Geraldine Purver, set up Basildon Hospital’s website and social media project Feeding Together to support new mums breastfeeding.

Both Ella-Mae and Edward are now at home and thriving.

Lisette said: “Both these babies have left a special imprint on my heart. The hours I spent supporting them are the reason I am dedicating the walk to them.

“The Thames Path Challenge is a small test of endurance for me compared to the weeks of ups and downs faced by Edward’s and Ella-Mae’s parents.”

The challenge takes place on September 14. To support Lisette, go to www.justgiving.com/Lisette-Harris For advice on infant feeding, visit www.feedingtogether.com