THIS little boy proved he was a real fighter – now his dad is doing the same.
Archer Williamson was born 12 weeks early, weighing just 1lb 13oz, and defied all the odds to become a healthy and happy five-year-old.
His dad Ben, 28, has taken inspiration from his son's determination and entered into the Tough Mudder challenge – a 12-mile, military-style assault course – on Saturday, May 4.
He hopes to raise thousands of pounds for Bliss, a charity which provides the best possible care and support for all premature and sick babies and their families.
He said: "I decided I wanted to mark Archer's fifth year by doing something to raise money for charity.
"He fought through so much at such a young age and we were told on several occasions to prepare for the worst.
"Now he is full of life just a normal little boy.
"I want other families across the country to have support if their child is born premature which is the reason for choosing Bliss."
Following his birth in 2007 at Grimsby's Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital, Archer was in a critical condition and fought off both bronchitis and MRSA.
Ben will not be alone during the challenge, he has entered as a team of six – made up of his family and friends.
Many of his team mates work for the family business, I & M Bathrooms in Cromwell Road, Grimsby, where members of the public can visit to make any donations to the cause.
Ben said: "This event will definitely be a challenge, we are not athletes, the most exercise we previously did was getting in and out of the work van.
"We have all started training now, heading to the gym and running during the week.
"It will be hard but as a team I hope we will push each other on, the thought of what Archer has been through will keep me going."
Adam Williamson, 26, is Ben's brother and is also joining the event.
He said: "I am looking forward to it, there are a lot of families who have premature children but some are not as lucky as Archer.
"It is all for a worthy cause and the end prize is a pint of beer – I will definitely be ready for that."
Mike Fisher, 18, is also taking part.
He said: "It will be interesting to see how far I can really go both mentally and physically.
"There will be no giving up on this, we will all complete the event one way or another. It will really help us doing it together as we can push each other on.
"Knowing Archer's story is really inspirational and will definitely give me that extra motivation on the day."
More than 600 babies were born prematurely in North East Lincolnshire in the last three years.
Early births carry many risks, including neurological impairment and disability, and the earlier they are born, the greater the risk is.
Anyone wanting to sponsor the team can visit www.justgiving.com/Adam-Williamson2
ON THE WEB: Read Archer's full story at www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk
