A police officer who remembers ‘fighting for his life’ at Whipps Cross Hospital is setting out on a challenge to raise cash for a cause which he says is very close to his heart.

Haringey cop Rob Ross suffered from chronic asthma as a child, needing regular hospital visits and overnight stays to fight off asthma attacks.

Between the ages of eight and 15 he was a frequent visitor to Acorn Ward at the Leytonstone Hospital Now, aged 46, Sergeant Ross is taking on a year of challenging sporting events to raise money for the ward.

He plans to cycle, run, climb and battle through various events and obstacle courses during 2015 in a series of monthly challenges.

He said: “I have many memories of my time there, including other kids who were also being re-admitted on a regular basis.

“I remember looking forward to my boiled egg and toast in the mornings, doctors waking me up at silly times to take blood tests, the excitement of certain nurses allowing us to stay up late and watch TV in the play room.

“I remember at times fighting for every breath. I’m pleased to say that as I grew older my asthma improved and I have lived a very active life.”

Rob’s first event in January was a duathlon in Stratford’s Olympic Park.

He will complete another in Windsor and Eton this month, before undertaking a half marathon in March.

A Duathlon is an athletic event that consists of a running leg, followed by a cycling leg and then another running leg.

“I’ve been thinking for many years how I’d love to give something back to the Acorn Ward,” Mr Ross added.

“I’ve been working closely with the people at Barts Charity, who have assured me that 100% of all the money they receive from my fundraising will go directly to the Acorn Ward, which is fantastic news."

You can follow journey here.