A GROUP of 58 people from across the county climbed Snowdon in the dark to support the Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, writes Tilly Kellaway.
The trek to witness a sunrise from the summit has already raised £21,000 for the cause. The cash will help to enhance hospital life that goes above core NHS services – bringing comfort, innovation and care to those who need it the most.
Guided by the expert team from Sky Blue Adventures, participants faced torrential rain and 50mph wind. Despite the conditions, most reached the summit, producing a shared sense of purpose and community spirit for everyone involved.
Each participant had their own personal reason for taking on the challenge, whether hospital staff raising funds for their departments, patients in a show of gratitude for care received or community members coming together for local hospitals.
Paige Cheshire climbed with her family to give back to the Neonatal unit at Worcestershire Royal hospital after her son was born at 30 weeks, staying in the hospital for 47 days, where he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
Paige said: “Throughout it all, the neonatal team stood by us with expertise, compassion and unwavering support.
“They saved my boy – and held me up when I needed strength the most.”
Husband and wife, Andy and Heather Asbury, climbed alongside children’s cancer specialist nurse, Dawn Forbes, for The Children of Worcestershire and Herefordshire Cancer Fund which supported their son, Josh, during his treatment.
Mr Asbury said: “They helped us to make memories and to feel more comfortable during our hospital stays.
“Even now they’re still there for us after Josh rang his end of treatment bell.”
Also among the climbers were members of the children’s emergency department team, raising funds to purchase toys and therapeutic resources to help young patients feel more at ease during hospital visits.
Natalya Moore, children’s emergency department manager, said: “Our trained healthcare play specialists use toys and resources to deliver therapeutic play techniques that help children better understand their illness and treatment.
“This support reduces anxiety and helps both children and their families feel more relaxed during their time with us.”
The event was sponsored by Altera Digital Health whose generous support helped make the challenge possible.
Their involvement reflected a shared commitment to giving back to the community and supporting local healthcare services.
Visit: wahcharity.org for more on the
