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Courage was on full display at Ipswich Hospital last weekend as 178 participants—including cancer survivors and NHS staff—abseiled from a nerve-testing 135ft height.
Why it matters: The adrenaline-fuelled event has so far raised over £68,733 to enhance patient experience across Colchester and Ipswich hospitals and community sites run by East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust.
By the numbers:
178 brave participants completed the challenge
46 NHS staff members took part
£68,733 raised so far for patient care
Cancer survivor conquers heights: Among the courageous abseilers was Joe Alexander, who faced his fear of heights to raise over £3,000 for the hospital charity.
Joe's personal journey included two cancer diagnoses in just over two decades, which fuelled his determination to support the healthcare services that helped him through difficult times.
"I've experienced first-hand the exceptional care and facilities provided by the staff in the Woolverstone Wing at Ipswich Hospital," Joe said.
The significant funds he raised will contribute directly to enhancing patient care in the very facilities where he received treatment.
Friends honour beloved father: In a touching tribute, friends Grace Pearson and Maisie-Belle Allen-Banks tackled the abseil in memory of Grace's father, Mark Pearson.
Mark passed away in January this year following a three-year battle with oesophagus cancer, during which he received care at Ipswich Hospital.
The pair have raised an impressive £1,799 to date, turning their grief into positive action for future patients.
"He was extremely well taken care of by many across Ipswich Hospital," Grace said of her father's treatment. "It felt so rewarding to do this with my extremely supportive friend and I know my dad would be so proud of us."
Staff join the challenge: The event saw impressive participation from healthcare professionals, with 46 staff members from across the Trust taking the plunge to support their own wards and departments.
Their firsthand knowledge of how additional funding enhances patient care added special significance to their participation in the daring descent.
What they're saying: Sandra Gosney, the charity's community fundraising and events manager, expressed her delight at the turnout and funds raised.
"We're thrilled with the incredible amount of support received. The participants showed exceptional courage and determination, and their efforts will mean a great deal to patients and their families," she said.
The charity extended thanks to everyone involved, including sponsors Barnes Construction, suppliers, volunteers, and all participants who made the event "a huge success."
The bottom line: Through personal courage and community spirit, the abseilers have made a significant contribution that will enhance healthcare experiences for thousands of patients across Suffolk and Essex.
Those inspired by these stories can learn about upcoming fundraising events on the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity website.
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