Alistair steps out for Steps (From Stroud News and Journal)

Alistair steps out for Steps

EVEN his years of medical training couldn't steel Dr Alistair Smith for the shock of finding out his beautiful baby daughter had been born with a hip defect.

But an organisation which helped him and his wife Alyson get through the early days is now set to benefit when the Doc pounds the pavements to bring in the pounds for Steps, the national association for children with lower limb abnormalities.

Baby Helena was born in February 2001 with a hip defect and Alistair, 32, from Rodborough said: "My first and foremost concern was that of any parent and not a GP."

The support he received from the charity has prompted him to take part in the Stroud Half-Marathon on Sunday, October 27.

And Alistair who works at Locking Hill surgery, is appealing for sponsors to help him raise money.

He lives on Rodborough Little Helena, now 20-months who had to spend most of last summer in a plaster cast splint from her chest to her ankles but today she bounds around like any other toddler her age and is fully recovered.

Alistair said: "Helena was born in Stroud Maternity Hospital in February with congenital hip dysplasia.

"This meant her hip joint had not formed properly and was easily dislocated. "Initial treatment was unsuccessful so she had to have the splint.

"Alyson and I needed help and advice and Steps was extremely supportive. "Happily, Helena is now toddling around as if nothing was ever wrong."

Alistair ran the half marathon in 1999 in aid of the Stroud Hospital League of Friends, supported by colleagues Dr Lewis and Dr Blenkarn.

He completed the course in one hour and 55 minutes, but said he would be lucky to make that time again.

"I'm three years older now," he explained. "And last time when I finished I felt dead on my feet."

Alistair has an eight-mile training programme that takes him on to the common two or three times a week.

He is originally from Lancashire and will be accompanied on the run by younger brothers Jonathan, 31 and Robert, 22.

After studying at Oriel College, Oxford, Alistair came to Gloucestershire in 1995. He has lived in Stroud for three years.

He hopes to raise £500 for Steps.

Anyone who wants to make a donation can do so at Locking Hill surgery or contact Alistair on 01453 762513.