Samantha Colman and Tabitha Harper-Haynes who are usually found caring for patients at the King’s Lynn hospital will be taking part in an enduring trail race later in the summer.
Once their ambitious target is achieved it will be used to buy equipment that will transform the care delivered to patients who are unable to get out of bed.
The duo are specifically hoping to purchase a piece of equipment for Elm Ward at the Trust that is an early mobilisation aid to support rehabilitation for patients who are unable to sit or stand unaided called the Sara Combilizer®. The equipment can play a vital role in not only enhancing their comfort and wellbeing but speeding up their recovery – particularly for patients with serious or life-changing injuries.
To kick off their fundraising journey, Samantha and Tabitha will take on the Run Sandringham 24 this August – an epic 24-hour trail race where participants complete as many laps as possible before the clock runs out. Hot off the heels of this impressive challenge, they will also host a quiz and raffle night in September at a local community centre to further boost funds and awareness.
Samantha, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist in Trauma and Orthopaedics, said: “We’ve worked in the Orthopaedic department for over eight years and have seen first-hand how patients struggle with usual mobilisation aids.
“We were fortunate to trial the Sara Combilizer® during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and it was a game-changer. It allowed patients who are normally confined to their bed to sit and stand comfortably, which positively impacted their mood and enhanced their recovery.
“Over the past year, Tabitha and I have taken up running to support our own physical and mental wellbeing. We wanted our patients to feel the same way during their treatment and recovery, so we decided to undertake the Run Sandringham 24 challenge to raise funds for this life-changing mobilising equipment. We also aim to share the impact of physiotherapy on patients during their recovery journey.”
All funds raised will go directly to The QEH Charity in support of this vital piece of equipment for Elm Ward.
Supporters can donate or follow the fundraising journey via their JustGiving page:
www.justgiving.com/campaign/elm-ward-fundraisers
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Notes to editors;
If you would like to raise funds for good causes or help an appeal at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, please take a look at our website www.qehklcharity.co.uk. Alternatively, please email our Charity team at Charity@qehkl.nhs.uk or call 01553 613309.
To download the full media release please click here.
For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216.
For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
About QEHKL Charity: QEHKL Charity plays a vital role in supporting The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn. The charity raises funds for medical equipment, research, services, and facilities that directly benefit patients and their families. With its support, QEHKL can provide high-quality care, expand services, and improve the hospital experience for those in need.
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