AN inspirational couple is taking on an epic 5km obstacle course in the Ragley Estate to raise money for the British Heart Foundation after their baby son was born with two holes in his heart.

Clare Cheneler and her husband Ian, aged 30, are aiming to raise funds from the charity by taking part in the Royal British Legion Major Series as they believe without their work and research into congenital heart defects, children like their son, Ryan, would not get the treatment they need to survive.

They will be joined by Ian’s 32-year-old sister Michelle, her 31-year-old partner Dale Parry and Clare’s best friend Jennifer Somers.

Ryan’s condition was first noticed at their 12-week scan as his nuchal translucency (NT), a collection of fluid under the skin at the back of the baby's head, was slightly enlarged and we were advised that this could be an indicator of Down syndrome or a similar condition.

They were advised to terminate the pregnancy but they refused and were referred for further tests after their GP discovered a heart murmur.

Mrs Cheneler, aged 35, said: "We both felt like our whole world has been shattered.

"In order to mend the holes in his heart, we were told that the treatment option would be open-heart surgery.

"He looked so healthy so it was extremely hard to come to terms with and we had the added fear of open heart surgery looming in the background. I cried like crazy for the first few days.

"We were told that because he is healthy and growing so well, we could have an appointment in six months time to see if he struggles once he becomes more active.

"We never knew about congenital heart defects and just how many children are affected by them until it happened to our family, and following Ryan’s diagnosis, we are trying to spread as much awareness as possible.

"We are anxiously waiting to see what the next six month brings, but the British Heart Foundation have been a great support and have provided lots of information at this difficult time and it feels only right that we give something back."

"We have been training hard for the race and while we’re a bit nervous, we can’t wait to complete it. We know it’s going to be hard work but it’s for such a good cause.

The obstacle course is being held on October 22.