A BEXLEY couple who were given the devastating news that their baby would not reach his first birthday are raising cash for the hospital that saved him.

Benjamin Ballard was born on January 6 2010 with a range of medical problems including listeria meningitis and heart failure.

He has Noonan Syndrome - a genetic disorder which means he is fed through a tube and cannot walk or talk.

His parents Katie and Toby, of Bexley High Street, say they are "on top of the world" as more than two years on Benji is a thriving toddler.

Mr Ballard, 40, said: "They pulled the curtains round and told us he was unlikely to live straight away.

"They said if he got through the first few days he would only live up to a year.

"The doctors have called him their 'miracle boy' because he survived against all odds."

So far the couple have raised £13,000 for cardiac services at the Evelina Children's Hospital, based in St Thomas' Hospital.

Mrs Ballard, 31, said: "The entire team at the Evelina fought tirelessly against the odds to give Benji the very best care and medical attention and have since supported us in our fundraising.

"Our goals are to raise money and let people know about the hospital."

The couple, who run their own business KTB Pilates and Physiotherapy, will host a fundraising family fun day on June 3 from noon at Mill Meadows Farm in Bexley.

A football tournament, tug-of-war, live music, cakes, BBQ and a visit from the fire brigade will take place.

Tickets cost £10 for adults, £5 for teenagers and under 13s go free.

Mr Ballard said: "We don't actually know what the future holds. We like to think it's going to carry on the way it is and he is going to make progress.

"We have learnt with Benji anything can happen. As far as we are concerned we just look forward."

For tickets, visit pilatesandtherapy.co.uk or calling 01322 552299.

For more information about Evelina Children’s Hospital, visit togetherwecan.org.uk/guys-thomas-hospitals