A generous donation has pushed the latest fundraising initiative by Friends of Dorset County Hospital ever closer to their target. Graham Curtis donated an overwhelming £3,500 to the Friends after taking part in the Dorchester Lions 2K Fun Run, held earlier this year. The money will go towards the Friends’ pledge to raise £17,000 for a new ultrasound machine for the Respiratory Department at DCH. The new machine will allow for clearer and quicker procedures for patients with plural diseases.
Graham, who has been a patient at DCH for a number of years with respiratory problems, decided he wanted to give something back to the Trust. On the day, he was pushed in his wheelchair around the 2K route by DCH Respiratory Consultant Jennifer Graves, alongside other colleagues.
Manager of the Friends of DCH, Sharon Merritt, said: “We were delighted when Graham said he wanted to help raise money for our current fundraising project.
“He had an idea to take part in the Dorchester Lions 2K Fun Run, being pushed round by Jennifer. We loved the idea as it was something completely different to anything we had done before. Graham soon got to work raising money, holding a tombola, bingo night and raffles.
“We were overwhelmed when we were told they had raised an amazing £3,500, which included a £500 donation from the Lodge of Oddfellows as well as a donation from the Lions.
“It really is very much appreciated. Without the generosity of the local community, we wouldn’t be able to raise the money that we do to continue our support to the patients of DCH.”
Graham added: “I would like to thank the Dorchester Lions, Sharon, Dr Graves and her husband and the lovely people from Oddfellows for all their support. I only thought I would raise £1,000 but couldn’t believe it when we hit £3,500. I am so pleased to be able to support the hospital.”
Since the Lions’ first Fun Run in 1983, more than a quarter of a million pounds has been raised for local charities and good causes. The event is one of the most longstanding, well-supported and popular community charity events in Dorchester.
Andy Rose, from Dorchester Lions, said: “We would like to thank all those who took time to participate in the Fun Run this year. The club was delighted to welcome Graham and the team from DCH, they did an amazing job of fundraising and we were glad to support them.”
For more information, or to support the fundraising initiative, contact the Friends team on 01305 255896, email friends@dchft.nhs.uk or visit www.friendsofdorsetcountyhospital.co.uk
Dorchester Lions are now planning for their next fundraising event, their Charity Golf Day at Came Down Golf Club on 18 September.
For more information, contact Andy on 07815873246 or Neil on 07762085828.
