Running 10k for leukaemia patients
Two teachers from Clifton: A Community Arts School in Rotherham have raised an amazing £532 for the new teenage cancer unit being built as part of the redevelopment of the adult leukaemia wards at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital.
Dan Fisher and Matt Butler took part in the Clumber Park 10k Race to raise money in memory of Neil Gardiner, who sadly lost his battle with leukaemia last November.
Dan explains: “Matt and I decided to take part in the race to help raise funds for the unit where my partner Lynn’s brother was at that time being treated. We were impressed at how well Neil was cared for during his time at the hospital and wanted to say a big thank you to staff for their support.”
Head of Fundraising for the Sheffield Leukaemia and Blood Disorders Appeal, Emma Dickens, said: “The new teenage unit has captured the imaginations of a number of our supporters and has become an “unofficial” extension to the Sheffield Leukaemia and Blood Disorders Appeal. Already more than £30,000 has been raised, which will be used to create a fantastic new resource to improve services for young patients with leukaemia and other blood disorders.
“We are extremely grateful to Dan and Matt for taking part in the race on our behalf and to Neil’s family for their support.”
The aim of the new teenage unit is to provide a dedicated facility in which to support and care for 16 to 25 year olds who have been diagnosed with leukaemia and other blood disorders. Patients will receive care and emotional support from a team of experienced staff, as well as the invaluable support and reassurance from fellow patients who are of a similar age. This helps young people share experiences at this important and challenging time of their lives.
The unit is quite different to the typical hospital environment and will be built with young people very much in mind. Patients will have access to computers with internet access, DVD players and PlayStation, and will be involved in the planning and design to ensure that their needs are fully met. The atmosphere will be friendly and relaxed, to help reassure patients and improve their stay in hospital.
For more information about fundraising for the Sheffield Leukaemia and Blood Disorders Appeal, including the new teenage unit, contact Emma Dickens on 0114 226 3555, or visit www.shctonline.org.uk/appeal
Links
› Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
› Sheffield Primary Care Trust
› Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust

