SHE will run a mile for every week of her pregnancy.

And with every step, Hannah Cowley will summon the strength that saw her premature daughter, born at 26 weeks, battle through to become a thriving little girl.

This month, the mum-of-three will take on the London Marathon to raise money for Bliss.

Along with husband and bakery manager Keith, 37, she received support from the special care baby charity after daughter Georgina was born prematurely eight years ago.

After her birth, at just 26 weeks and weighing only 850 grams, Georgina spent 101 days in hospital. She suffered from collapsed lungs and brain bleeds and had operations on her heart, as well as blood transfusions.

During this period, Ms Cowley, 33, found solace in Bliss’ online message board, where she received advice from other parents who had gone through similar experiences.

Georgina is now a healthy eight-year-old child and has two younger siblings – Abigail, five, and Evan, four – who all attend Kings Meadow school.

Ms Cowley, who lives in Beckdale Close, Bicester, said: “We were very lucky. Our hospital journey wasn’t without scares, pain, tears, and a lot of anguish, but the eight years have flown by and Georgina is just amazing.

“I want to raise money to help other tiny babies, helping them and their parents get through the most traumatic time of their lives. Without Bliss and the wonderful work they do, my princess wouldn’t be here. I wanted to give something back, whilst also fulfilling a life-long dream of running the London Marathon.”

So far, the HR worker has raised almost £1,600 out of a target £2,500 for Bliss.

In the run-up to the marathon she is organising fundraising events and receiving donations from friends, family and colleagues.

The mum-of-three has never done a marathon before but did take part in the Oxford half-marathon in October.

She said: “It’s been pretty tough. Fundraising has been the hardest part. But I’m getting excited now.”

Bliss chief executive Caroline Davey said: “I wish Hannah the best of luck taking on this incredible challenge for Bliss.

“She is part of a team of dedicated runners who are raising money and awareness for premature and sick babies. The vital funds they raise will help us improve the lives of babies throughout the UK.”

For more information about Hannah or to sponsor her p For more information visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/HannahCowley