Six-year-old Cullen completes triathlon to raise funds for the Children's Ward that cared for him

After more than 60 hospital admissions during his early childhood, six-year-old Cullen Roderick has found a unique way to thank the team who has helped him over the years.

The young fundraiser has raised an incredible £1,100 for the Children's Ward at Royal Glamorgan Hospital after completing the Caldicot Kids Triathlon this summer, when he was just five years old.

Earlier this week, Cullen returned to the ward with his family to present the donation to the nurses and staff who have played such an important role in his life.

For him and his family, the cause couldn’t be more personal. From an early age, Cullen experienced regular hospital admissions because of respiratory problems, sometimes needing care in the hospital’s High Dependency Unit.

Thankfully, Cullen's condition is now much better managed, and his hospital visits are less frequent.

Speaking about the fundraising challenge, Cullen's mum, Kirsty Smith, said:

"When Cullen was younger, he would become very poorly very quickly and, between the ages of one and three, we were in hospital almost every other week. It was an incredibly difficult time for us as a family, but the care and support we received from staff on the children’s ward made such a difference.

Cullen still knows many of the nurses by their first names. They have been part of his journey for so long and he has never forgotten that. Taking part in the triathlon was his way of saying thank you and helping other children and families who might need the same support in the future.

We were so proud to see him complete the challenge and overwhelmed by the support he received from his school, family, friends and local businesses."

Cullen completed the Caldicot Kids Triathlon in June, taking on a swim, bike ride and run all before he turned six.

His interest in triathlon began through his dad, who has completed IRONMAN Wales twice. Inspired by what he had seen, Cullen decided to take on a challenge of his own while raising money for the ward that means so much to him and his family.

Cullen continued his triathlon journey by taking part in IRONKIDS Wales in Tenby this weekend, joining other young people as part of the IRONMAN Wales event series.

Victoria Bowler, Ward Manager for the Children's Ward at Royal Glamorgan Hospital, said:

"It was wonderful to welcome Cullen and his family back to the ward and celebrate everything he has achieved. Many members of our team have known Cullen for several years, so seeing him return as a determined young fundraiser was very special.”

Abe Sampson, Head of CTM NHS Charity, said:

"Cullen's story is a wonderful example of turning gratitude into something positive for others. To take on his first triathlon at such a young age is a huge achievement, but to use that challenge to raise £1,100 for the ward that cared for him makes it even more special.

We're so grateful to Cullen and everyone who supported him. Their generosity will make a real difference for children and families at Royal Glamorgan Hospital.”

Every pound donated to CTM NHS Charity stays local, funding practical improvements that make things better for patients, families and NHS staff across Cwm Taf Morgannwg.

Inspired by Cullen’s story? Find out more about our CTM NHS Charity and how to make a donation to the Royal Glamorgan Hospital children’s ward here.

Together, we make good things happen.

11/09/2026