SHE was born 15 weeks prematurely with a rare medical condition, but Amber Underwood finally lost her fight for life at just five months old.

Now her father and grandfather have donned their training shoes and are taking part in the Great South Run later this month in her memory.

Her father Brian Underwood told the Echo: “When Amber was born she weighed 1.16kg and her belly looked bigger than it should compared to the other extremely premature babies. This was due to a condition called Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, which is an overgrowth of many parts of the body.

“These babies are larger than normal and continue to grow and gain weight at an unusual rate during childhood. Amber was found to have a larger tongue, liver, kidneys and heart. The large internal organs restricted the growth and function of her lungs.”

One in five infants with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome dies early in life from complications related to the disorder.

Amber passed away on March 31 of chronic lung disease due to prematurity and complications with her syndrome.

“She endured so much in a short space of time. We were then, and are now, so very proud of her,” says Brian.

“Both Amber’s grandfather Ian and myself are really looking forward to doing this run in memory of Amber. The Great South Run is so close to the day she was born, so this will be a special challenge for the both of us.”

He adds: “The neonatal unit was like a second home to us, and we got really close to the staff on the unit when we were in hospital.

“They helped us have five amazing months with Amber, and we wanted to give something back.”

To donate to the neonatal unit, please visit virginmoneygiving.com/ BrianUnderwood