My name is Rory O'Connor. My son Patrick was born prematurely in June of this year and was very unwell. The care, support and hard work of the staff in the Neonatal Unit of the Ulster Hospital was incredible. They saved my son's life!

The staff went above and beyond in every way and I am forever grateful for them and everything they do.

I would like to raise as much as possible for the Neonatal Unit by completing the North Channel Crossing from Northern Ireland to Portpatrick in Scotland. I am aiming to Row a boat across the Channel unaided and challenging myself to break the record for doing so which was set in 1997 in a time of 3 hours and 39 minutes.

All proceeds minus safety boat costs will be donated directly to the Ulster Hospital Neonatal Unit.

Please support me in this challenge by donating what you can, or by sharing this with as many of your contacts as possible so the next sick mum or baby can receive the same level of care and compassion that we experienced.

Thank you.

Rory