Patients and staff walk for their ward

Patients, families and friends of Ward 78 at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital walk around Hollingworth Lake to raise money for the ward

Staff, patients, families and friends of Ward 78 at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital walked around Hollingworth Lake on Saturday (27 June) to raise money for the ward and so far the 51 strong team have raised £1,000.

The walk was organised by play leaders Cassy Ansbro and Janet Concannon, favourite faces of children when admitted to the ward, keeping them entertained and distracted throughout their stay.

Taking part was five orthopaedic and neurosurgery patients, and their families, the walk being a challenge for each of the children in different ways. Some of the children have complex needs so for them just managing to walk a stretch of it was a fantastic achievement. One patient who only months ago couldn’t walk at all managed to complete the whole walk, a proud moment for all.

Once completing the circuit, the walkers were greeted by hospital mascot, Humphrey the bear, who presented all with medals and goodie bags to congratulate them on their efforts.

Cassy Ansbro said: “It was a fantastic day for all involved; there was a lovely mix of people who took part – all with one thing in common, Ward 78.

"It was also great to be reunited with previous patients of the ward and seeing them do so well. We are asking patients and their families on their thoughts as to what the money raised should be used for, we want to make sure it is something all will enjoy, making their stay with us a little easier.”

Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity raises funds to ensure continued excellence in treatment, care and research at the hospital – improving the lives of thousands of children each year across the North West and beyond.

The support of the charity means that the hospital can provide additional resources that make life easier for patients and their families who use the hospital.

The charity has three main areas of work:

• To support research projects to improve our understanding of children’s illnesses
• To help to create an environment that’s more child-friendly
• To provide state-of-the-art equipment for diagnosis and treatment.