A FORMER patient at Bristol Children’s Hospital is taking to the road in a sponsored walk from Chew Valley Lake to the hospital for charity.

Ebony Clark is undertaking the 11.5-mile walk for the Wallace & Gromit Grand Appeal, raising funds for the hospital to support children and toddlers in their care.

The 24-year-old from Temple Cloud spent many months in the hospital receiving care when she was a child.

She said: “I live in Temple Cloud, so the Chew Valley is very much home to me. I’ll be starting the walk from Chew Valley Lake and walking to Bristol Children’s Hospital to raise money for The Grand Appeal.

“The reason the walk means so much to me is because I received life-changing care at Bristol Children’s Hospital when I was younger.”

Ebony had to learn how to walk eight times throughout her short life, which has had a huge impact on her physically, emotionally and socially.

Now in her 20s, Ebony is turning her childhood experience into something positive and fundraising for the hospital.
Now in her 20s, Ebony is turning her childhood experience into something positive and fundraising for the hospital. (Ebony Jade Clark)

She said: “When I was younger, I missed a lot of school because of hospital stays and everything I was going through.

“I also never really got the chance to experience what most people would consider a “normal” childhood or teenage life.

“While other teenagers were going out with friends, being independent and doing all the usual things teenagers do, my life was very different because of my health and the treatment I needed.

She added: “It was incredibly difficult at times, but I’ve come a long way. Things are slightly better for me now, and being able to look back at everything I’ve been through and turn it into something positive is really important to me.”

Ebony will begin her walk on January 29 2027 from Chew Valley Lake

“There’s something quite emotional about making that journey, from the place I now call home back to the hospital that has been such a significant part of my life,” she added.

“This isn't just a walk - it's my way of saying thank you. Every mile is dedicated to the amazing NHS staff who helped me as a child and to the children and families who are relying on that same care today.”

Ebony spent many months in Bristol Children's Hospital learning to walk again there eight times.
Ebony spent many months in Bristol Children's Hospital learning to walk again there eight times. (Ebony Jade Clark)

Bristol Children’s Hospital helps treat sick babies and children from Bristol and across the South West.

The Wallace and Gromit Grand Appeal helps provide life-saving equipment, family accommodation, pioneering research, and so many of the extras that make an enormous difference to children during their treatment and recovery.

So far Ebony has reached £440 of her £1,000 target to support the Grand Appeal.

“If you're able to support my challenge, no matter the amount, you'll be helping The Grand Appeal continue its incredible work and give hope to families when they need it most.”

She added: “During one of the most difficult times in my life, the doctors, nurses, and staff showed incredible compassion, kindness, and dedication—not only to me but also to my family. Their care is something I will never forget.”

Make donations for the appeal at her Justgiving page.