Boy’s Fundraising Reached Great Heights With 140-Foot Charity Abseil

Aubrey Lawson from Leamington Spa took on the thrilling challenge with a true sense of adventure, boldly braving a 140-foot abseil off the Mailbox Birmingham building in the heart of the city centre. To the cheers of his family, Aubrey faced his nerves and calmly completed his mission, driven by thankfulness for the medics who saved his life when he was only weeks old. 

In his first few weeks of life, Aubrey’s parents, Brad Lawson and Lucy Searle, were seriously worried about their little boy’s health, as he struggled to put on enough weight and showed signs of jaundice. Initial medical tests could not diagnose the cause and at eight weeks old, Aubrey stopped feeding. The little boy was rushed to his local hospital, before being urgently transferred to our Children’s Hospital for specialist care. 

Within 24 hours, Aubrey was diagnosed with a rare heart defect and underwent open heart surgery to save his life. It was an extremely frightening and stressful time for his family, but they were overjoyed that the surgery was a success and Aubrey was able to make an incredible recovery.  

Looking back, Aubrey and his family are extremely grateful for the care they received, and the fact Aubrey was able to recover so quickly. Spending time at our hospital, Brad and Lucy met other parents facing months or even years on wards with their child, and the reality of their experiences made them determined to do their bit to support our patients and families.

Since 2019, the family has decided to fundraise each year, taking on a host of different activities, from charity bake sales and toy sales to taking on their local Wolf Run. Now Aubrey has picked up the family tradition and run with it, enthusiastically volunteering to take on our charity abseil of his own volition.  

Drumming up support from his school, friends and family and the local community, Aubrey and his family were able to raise over £2,000 in support of our sick kids, doubling their original fundraising target. 

His mum, Lucy said: “I was a bit apprehensive about him going all the way up there, but Aubrey was so calm and steady, and he absolutely loved the whole experience. As soon as he got to the ground, he wanted to do it again! 

“Supporting this charity is a big part of our family life and we’re so pleased that Aubrey’s taken this on.” 

His dad, Brad, added, “We’re really proud that Aubrey’s done this challenge, but what inspires us most is how much he wants to contribute and help all the patients and families at the Children’s Hospital. 

“Seeing the impact of the money he’s raised has meant so much to him and strengthened his resolve to keep going – I’m sure he’ll go even bigger and better next year!” 

Annie Eytle, Head of Public Fundraising at Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “Aubrey is an absolute superstar and we’re in awe at how calmly he took on such a thrilling challenge for our sick kids. 

“The money he’s raised will help us keep delivering world class care and giving our brave patients with the best possible experiences, spaces and treatment.”