Patients and staff at the hospital have seen the benefits of the charity’s generous contributions, including new outdoor wheelchairs and exercise therapy for patients that have had a stroke.
One successful funding request was for a new children’s waiting area for The QEH’s Ear, Nose and Throat department, transforming the small area into an engaging, stimulating area for children to play and feel comfortable in a busy waiting room. With over 4,900 patients being seen over the last two years, the waiting room has greatly benefitted many children. The new waiting space includes different forms of sensory play, ensuring that children with hearing impairments can still interact with visual actives.
Behind the idea was Registered Nurse, Kerry Frammingham, who said: “My hope was to fund an area that will ensure children are occupied and less anxious about their appointments and their parents feel welcomed and well catered for during their visit.”
The League of Friends also funded peanut shaped birthing balls for patients in labour. The unique shape of these balls can help positions in childbirth which can help to deliver the baby quickly and safely, therefore needing less requirement for intervention in labour.
A specialised piece of equipment was also brough for the Trust called a Two Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing kit. This is a therapy toolkit that helps people process and heal from distressing, traumatic experiences. It uses side-to-side eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation) while individuals briefly focus on a memory. This replicates what happens naturally during REM sleep, when the brain processes emotional experiences. During therapy, distressing memories feel less intense and less disruptive, allowing emotional and physical distress to ease.
Rebecca McMinn, the hospital’s Charity Manager said: “We are so thankful to The League of Friends that go above and beyond in helping to support the work and activities in and around the QEH. These ladies and gentlemen demonstrate the meaning of giving, compassion and community. Their kindness and generosity knows no bounds and we are forever grateful for the support they offer for all of our charitable projects.”
Penny Hipkin, the League of Friends Chair, said: “Contributing to projects like this is exactly why the League of Friends exists. We are delighted to assist our healthcare teams and improve the hospital experience for those who need it most.”
The League of Friends raises vital funds for the hospital through generous donations from the public, legacies left in peoples Wills and through profits from the Leagues hospital shop.
If you would like to donate to the League of Friends, or to find out more information about the charity, please contact Carol Crake, Honorary League of Friends Secretary at carolcrake@sky.com
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